Ramban (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 20: In a tragic incident on Sunday, three people, including two children, lost their lives after a landslide struck the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, following relentless rainfall and a cloudburst.
Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary confirmed the casualties and reported that approximately 200 to 250 houses were damaged in the calamity. “Due to incessant rainfall and cloudburst, the National Highway was closed at several places. In Ramban, houses and hotels have suffered damage. Two houses collapsed in Bagahana village, where three lives were lost,” he said. He added that maximum destruction was reported in Ramban town, and rescue operations are ongoing with local teams on the ground and NDRF en route.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary has reached Ramban to assess the aftermath of the flash floods and landslide. The heavy rains also blocked several parts of the vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), stranding travelers and damaging many homes and vehicles.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid highway travel until weather conditions improve and debris is cleared.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti expressed deep concern and called on the Omar Abdullah-led administration to evacuate vulnerable groups and supply them with essentials. “The devastating landslides have claimed lives, buried vehicles, and stranded many. I urge the administration to prioritize evacuation of vulnerable people, provide food, water, and medical aid, and take long-term preventive measures,” she said.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed grief via a post shared by the Chief Minister’s Office on X. “Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban. We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts. Later today, I will review relief and restoration plans. Citizens should follow advisories and avoid unnecessary movement,” he said.
He also offered condolences to the families of the victims and assured that rescue and relief operations are actively underway.