A sudden cloudburst struck Chashoti, a key stop on the route to the Machail Mata pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, triggering flash floods and causing massive destruction. The incident prompted authorities to temporarily suspend the yatra as rescue and relief operations intensified.
Eyewitnesses reported that the flash flood swept through a community kitchen and nearby encampments, washing away pilgrims and damaging temporary structures. While casualty figures are still being confirmed, officials fear significant loss of life and property.
Rescue efforts are underway, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army, local police, and civilian volunteers working in challenging terrain. Helicopters, medical units, and temporary crossings have been deployed to reach the affected zone.
Senior political leaders have expressed condolences and assured full assistance to those impacted. The state administration has set up control rooms and helplines to coordinate support for stranded pilgrims and affected families.
The Machail Mata yatra will remain suspended until the route is declared safe, with restoration and relief efforts continuing on a priority basis.