Heavy rains trigger flash floods, landslides across Jammu region; Shah assures Centre’s support

09/07/2026

JAMMU, Jul 8: Incessant rainfall continued to batter parts of the Jammu region on Wednesday, triggering flash floods, landslides and widespread disruption in several districts, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and assured all possible assistance from the Centre.
The worst-hit areas included Doda, Kishtwar, Udhampur and Reasi, where heavy rains damaged infrastructure, affected agriculture and disrupted transport services.
In Udhampur, heavy downpours damaged harvested crops, prompting the Agriculture Department to issue an advisory to farmers. Chief Agriculture Officer Harbans Singh advised cultivators to ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and crop loss, while urging them to avail crop insurance and Kisan Credit Card facilities.
In Doda's Thathri area, a cloudburst followed by flash floods caused extensive damage to houses, shops and vehicles. National Highway-244, which was blocked due to debris, was later reopened for one-way traffic after restoration work. Residents demanded better flood protection measures and compensation for losses.
The flash floods also disrupted traffic on NH-244 at Premnagar and affected the ongoing Machail Yatra. Authorities advised commuters and pilgrims to avoid the route until it is declared fully safe.
In neighbouring Kishtwar district, flash floods damaged infrastructure at the 540 MW Kwar Hydroelectric Power Project, where water and debris inundated parts of the project site and buried several vehicles. Rescue and restoration operations are underway.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall triggered a landslide near Himkoti on the new track leading to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district.
Officials said the pilgrimage to the cave shrine continued uninterrupted through the traditional track, while the battery car service on the new track was temporarily suspended. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board deployed men and machinery to clear the debris.
Amid the worsening weather situation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to review the impact of the heavy rainfall and flash floods.
Shah assured the Chief Minister of every possible assistance from the Central Government for relief, rescue and restoration efforts in the affected areas.
Earlier, authorities opened three gates of the Baglihar Dam in Ramban district after the Chenab river witnessed a sharp rise in water level due to continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas.
The administration said all concerned departments have been put on alert and restoration work is continuing in the affected districts, while people have been advised to avoid flood-hit areas and travel only after receiving official clearance.

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