Heavy Rainfall Disaster Update in Kishtwar, Jammu-Kashmir: Mortality rate climbs to 60; Swift rescue mission continues as approximately 500 individuals remain potentially stranded
A devastating cloudburst hit Chositi village in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, on August 14, 2025, causing flash floods along the Machail Mata Yatra pilgrimage route. The disaster has left a tragic toll, with at least 67 deaths, over 300 injuries, and around 200 people missing, according to the latest reports[1].
The sudden and heavy rainfall swept away homes, community kitchens, security camps, vehicles at a bus stop, and numerous other facilities, leaving over 1,200 people, including many pilgrims on the yatra route, in dire straits[1].
In response to this catastrophe, the Indian administration has initiated an investigation to determine whether any lapses occurred in preparedness, as the weather forecast had predicted the possibility of heavy rainfall[2].
Rescue operations are currently underway, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, Army, and local volunteers working tirelessly to locate and assist trapped individuals, recover bodies, and provide emergency medical care to the injured[2][3][4].
The Indian Air Force is also set to participate in these relief and rescue efforts[5]. The operations are ongoing, with two Mi-17 helicopters and one Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) on standby at Jammu and Udhampur for the operations[6].
As the situation continues to unfold, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has expressed his solidarity with those affected by the disaster, offering his condolences during his Independence Day speech for the lives lost in the Kishtwar tragedy[7].
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah plans to visit Kishtwar on Saturday to assess the situation firsthand. He has already briefed Prime Minister Modi about the tragedy and its aftermath[8]. As of now, at least 167 people have been rescued, but many more remain trapped[9].
With the situation in Kishtwar still unfolding, further updates on the rescue efforts, casualties, and the overall condition of the affected area will be provided as they become available.
References: 1. [Link to news article 1] 2. [Link to news article 2] 3. [Link to news article 3] 4. [Link to news article 4] 5. [Link to news article 5] 6. [Link to news article 6] 7. [Link to news article 7] 8. [Link to news article 8] 9. [Link to news article 9]
Despite the ongoing rescue efforts in Kishtwar district, the death toll from the recent cloudburst continues to rise, with the latest reports suggesting over 67 fatalities. Amidst the general news coverage, Bollywood celebrities have also appealed for assistance in politics, urging their followers to donate to relief funds for the affected area.
