The region of Jammu and Kashmir is reeling under the aftermath of relentless rains, landslides, and flooding that have disrupted daily life, halted transportation, and caused severe tragedies. With 58 trains cancelled, roads blocked, and communication lines affected, thousands of residents and pilgrims are stranded while authorities continue rescue and relief efforts.
58 Trains Cancelled as Record Rains Lash Jammu and Katra
The Northern Railway has announced the cancellation of 58 trains connecting Jammu, Katra, and Udhampur, owing to the devastation caused by incessant rains. In addition, 64 trains were either short-terminated or diverted from various junctions within the division. This mass cancellation has affected thousands of passengers, particularly pilgrims traveling to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
Railway officials confirmed that heavy rainfall has damaged tracks, caused waterlogging, and triggered multiple landslides along rail routes. Priority has been given to safety checks and track restoration, with engineers deployed round-the-clock. Passengers have been advised to monitor updates before planning travel to the region.
Landslide on Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage Route Leaves 32 Dead
One of the most tragic incidents occurred near Indraprastha Bhojanalaya at Ardhkumwari, along the sacred Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route. A massive landslide struck the area, claiming 32 lives and leaving 20 others injured. Rescue teams, supported by the NDRF and SDRF, have been deployed to recover bodies and provide medical care to survivors.
This tragedy has deeply shaken the nation, given the religious and cultural importance of the pilgrimage site. Several devotees remain missing, while adverse weather conditions are slowing down search and rescue operations.
President Murmu and PM Modi Express Grief
President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound grief over the accident, calling it an “extremely painful incident.” She conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and extended wishes for the success of rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his sorrow through a post on X, instructing the administration to provide swift relief and all necessary support. He assured that the Government of India is in constant touch with the state authorities and monitoring the situation closely.
CM Omar Abdullah Briefs PM Modi on Situation
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has personally updated PM Modi about the ground realities. He visited severely affected areas along the Tawi River banks, where homes and public infrastructure suffered significant damage.
The Chief Minister stated, “I am grateful for the Prime Minister’s assurance of continuous assistance for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” Relief camps have been set up, and food, medical aid, and temporary shelters are being provided to displaced families.
Four Deaths Reported in Doda; Highway Repair Underway
The district of Doda has witnessed relentless rainfall, resulting in four confirmed deaths. Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh informed that although the rain is expected to subside, highways remain blocked due to landslides at multiple locations, including Thathri.
Repair work is underway with heavy machinery deployed to clear debris. Authorities expect to restore the highway connectivity by late evening, provided weather conditions improve. People have been strictly warned to avoid water bodies and remain indoors due to the possibility of further flooding.
Landslides in Udhampur and Ramban; NH-44 Blocked
In Udhampur district, SSP Traffic NHW Raja Adil Hamid reported landslides at Dewal and Chenani, leading to the closure of critical sections of NH-44, the primary link between Jammu and Srinagar. Continuous rainfall over the past 48 hours has weakened slopes, causing boulders and mudslides.
In Ramban, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan and SSP Arun Gupta inspected the highway near Banihal. Authorities emphasized that travelers should not attempt journeys until the route is cleared and officially reopened. Currently, thousands of vehicles remain stranded on either side of the blocked highway.
Flood Situation: Rivers Flowing Above Danger Mark
The persistent downpour has caused rivers across Ramban, Doda, and Udhampur to swell beyond danger levels. SSP Arun Gupta confirmed that rescue teams had to evacuate families from low-lying areas. “The situation is serious right now, but we are on high alert,” he stated.
Local police, army, and disaster relief teams are coordinating evacuations, providing dry rations, drinking water, and temporary shelters to affected families. Flood monitoring cells have been activated, and continuous updates are being relayed to the administration.
Schools and Colleges Likely to Remain Closed
Given the severity of the situation, schools and colleges in several districts, including Jammu, Udhampur, and Doda, are expected to remain closed. Final decisions are pending official orders, but authorities emphasize the importance of public safety over normal operations. Students and parents have been urged to follow official advisories before resuming travel.
Communication Breakdown Hampers Relief Operations
Heavy rainfall and landslides have damaged cellular towers and power supply lines, resulting in mobile connectivity issues in parts of Udhampur, Ramban, and Doda. The lack of communication has slowed down rescue coordination in remote areas.
Officials confirmed that efforts are underway to restore electricity and telecom services. Satellite phones have been provided to relief teams in the worst-hit zones to maintain critical communication.
Statewide Alert Issued by Meteorological Department
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rain alert for Jammu and Kashmir, predicting more precipitation in the coming hours. Although a cloudburst has not been officially confirmed, experts highlight that the rainfall intensity mirrors such conditions.
Authorities are urging residents to remain indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep emergency kits ready. Rescue shelters and medical aid stations have been placed on standby across vulnerable districts.
Nationwide Outpouring of Support
Political leaders, social organizations, and religious trusts from across India have extended solidarity to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Relief material, including blankets, food packets, medicines, and cash donations, is being mobilized for the affected regions.
Volunteers from various NGOs are working alongside government agencies to provide emergency relief. Special prayers are being conducted in temples, mosques, and gurdwaras across the nation for the safety of the people in Jammu and Kashmir.
Conclusion: A State in Crisis, A Nation in Solidarity
The current situation in Jammu and Kashmir is one of tragedy and resilience. With 58 trains cancelled, NH-44 blocked, and over 32 lives lost, the region faces one of its most challenging natural disasters in recent years. However, the combined efforts of the government, armed forces, relief teams, and citizens showcase the spirit of unity in the face of adversity.
As the weather department predicts clearer skies soon, restoration efforts are expected to accelerate. Until then, residents and pilgrims are advised to remain cautious and follow official advisories closely.
