Rescue teams search for missing residents while authorities warn of more heavy rainfall
SRINAGAR: At least 11 people were killed and seven others remained missing after torrential rain triggered flash floods and landslides across Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, prompting large-scale rescue and relief operations.
The worst-affected area was Surankote in Poonch district, near the Line of Control, where a landslide buried a house, killing five members of a family. Rescue teams continued searching for survivors, while four members of another family remained missing after floodwaters swept away their home.
Meanwhile, relentless rainfall caused rivers and streams to overflow, damaging homes, roads and infrastructure across Poonch and neighbouring Rajouri district. Authorities said dozens of vehicles were swept away or submerged, forcing many residents to evacuate vulnerable areas.
Relief efforts continue amid difficult conditions
Multiple rescue agencies remained deployed despite persistent rain, damaged roads and blocked highways that hampered access to affected communities. Emergency teams worked to reach stranded residents and deliver relief supplies as officials assessed the extent of the destruction.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cut short his visit to New Delhi to oversee relief operations, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha directed authorities to provide immediate assistance and rehabilitation support to affected families.
In addition, district administrations urged residents and tourists to avoid rivers, streams and landslide-prone areas as adverse weather persisted.
Weather warnings remain in effect
India’s Meteorological Department has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir through July 23, increasing the risk of further flooding and landslides.
As a precaution, authorities suspended the annual Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine because of dangerous weather conditions.
Meanwhile, heavy rain and flash floods also disrupted normal life in several parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. According to local broadcaster Samaa News, floodwaters swept away dozens of houses and livestock in the scenic Neelum Valley, causing extensive damage and adding to the region’s weather-related challenges as emergency officials continued monitoring the evolving situation.
