A massive cloudburst struck Chishoti village in the Padder sub-division of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday, triggering a state of panic and alarm among the local population. The incident, which occurred along a popular pilgrimage route, has raised fears of significant loss of life and property.
While a definitive number of casualties is yet to be confirmed by officials, initial reports suggest a potentially serious impact on the area. Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed he has been in contact with Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma, following an alert from local MLA and leader of the opposition, Sunil Kumar Sharma.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Jitendra Singh provided an update on the situation, stating, “Massive cloud burst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty. Administration has immediately swung into action, rescue team has left for the site. Damage evaluation and necessary rescue and medical management arrangements are being made. My office is receiving regular updates, all possible assistance will be provided.”
The reference to a reconstructed bridge in Uttarkashi and its connection to relief efforts for a separate cloudburst in that region highlights the broader context of recent weather-related calamities across the Himalayan belt. Authorities in both regions are actively engaged in managing the fallout and providing aid to affected residents.
This is a developing story, and more details will be provided as they are officially verified by the authorities.