Rescue Operations Ongoing as Farooq Abdullah Warns Toll Could Exceed 1,000; PM Modi Assures Support
A devastating cloudburst hit Chashoti village in Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir, on Thursday afternoon, claiming at least 60 lives and leaving over 100 injured. Rescue operations are currently underway, with multiple agencies on the ground working to find over 500 people feared trapped under debris.
Latest Developments
- 60 people confirmed dead
- 100+ injured and receiving medical attention
- 500+ still feared trapped, as per Farooq Abdullah
- PM Modi in touch with J&K CM, assures full support
- Massive rescue operation by NDRF, SDRF, Army, and local volunteers
Farooq Abdullah: Toll May Cross 1,000
Speaking to the media, National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah expressed deep sorrow and concern:
“I believe more than 500 people are still trapped under the debris in Kishtwar. Some officials fear the number may exceed 1,000. It is a moment of deep sadness,” he told the news agency.
CM’s Independence Day Address Begins With Condolences
In his first Independence Day speech since becoming Chief Minister in October last year, Omar Abdullah opened with condolences to the victims’ families:
“I extend my deepest sympathies to those who lost their loved ones in the Kishtwar cloudburst. We are doing everything possible to rescue survivors and support affected families.”
He also called for accountability, questioning whether the administration could have done more despite advance weather warnings.
PM Modi Offers Help
Chief Minister Abdullah confirmed that he had spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was briefed on the situation.
“My government and the people hit by this tragedy are grateful for the support and assistance offered by the Union Government,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Large-Scale Rescue Operation Underway
Rescue teams from multiple agencies are on-site:
- NDRF (National Disaster Response Force)
- SDRF (State Disaster Response Force)
- Indian Army
- J&K Police
- Local volunteers
Search efforts are ongoing despite challenging weather and terrain conditions.
📞 Control Room Set Up for Assistance
A control room-cum-help desk has been established to assist locals and pilgrims near Gulabgarh Paddar, about 15 km from Chashoti village.
Emergency Contact Numbers:
- 📱 9858223125
- 📱 6006701934
- 📱 9797504078
- 📱 8492886895
- 📱 8493801381
- 📱 7006463710
A Nation in Mourning
As the nation celebrates Independence Day, the tragic cloudburst in Kishtwar casts a shadow over the celebrations. Leaders across political lines have extended condolences and urged fast and efficient rescue operations.
Summary: What You Need to Know
- Massive cloudburst hits Kishtwar, J&K
- 60 dead, 100+ injured, 500+ still missing
- Rescue operations ongoing with full government support
- Farooq Abdullah fears toll could rise above 1,000
- Accountability and weather preparedness questioned
Final Word: Hope Amid Tragedy
As rescue teams continue their race against time in Kishtwar, the nation stands united in grief and solidarity. The tragic cloudburst serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the urgent need for disaster preparedness. While families await news of their loved ones, the collective efforts of responders and the support from across the country offer a glimmer of hope in these dark times. The focus now remains on saving lives — and ensuring such devastation is met with swift response and long-term resilience
Also Read : J&K Cloudburst Update: Death Toll in Chashoti Kishtwar Rises to 46, Army and NDRF Intensify Rescue
