JAMMU, Apr 20: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of three lives due to flash floods triggered by incessant rain in Ramban district. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary is rushing to the affected areas to assess the ground situation.
Officials said heavy rainfall overnight triggered flash floods, landslides, and mudslides across multiple areas of Ramban, claiming three lives and damaging dozens of homes. Over 100 people were rescued in a swift operation by police and disaster response teams.
The strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was also affected, with landslides reported at several points between Nashri and Banihal, forcing a temporary suspension of traffic.
A cloudburst struck Seri Bagna village, leading to the deaths of three individuals, including brothers Aqib Ahmad and Mohd Saqib. In Dharam Kund village, around 40 houses were damaged—10 of them completely—after flash floods swept through the area. Several vehicles were also washed away.
In a message, LG Sinha said, “Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of precious lives due to flash floods in Ramban. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Rescue and relief operations are in full swing, with all possible assistance being extended.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in a post from the CMO’s official handle, said he was “extremely anguished” by the disaster. “We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts wherever needed. I will be reviewing restoration, relief, and repair plans later today,” he said, urging people to follow travel advisories and avoid non-essential movement in vulnerable zones.
Deputy CM Choudhary, who is visiting the affected areas on the chief minister’s behalf, told reporters that the government is fully committed to supporting the victims. “The CM was scheduled to visit personally, but due to a delayed arrival in Delhi following a flight diversion, I am proceeding on his behalf,” he said.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, speaking at a party function, said the Ramban and Banihal areas have suffered extensive damage. “Our government will be requesting the Centre for financial assistance to ensure adequate relief reaches those affected,” he added.
A senior official described the situation as “severe,” citing widespread destruction across the district caused by heavy rain, cloudbursts, hailstorms, high-velocity winds, and landslides.
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