The state of Jammu and Kashmir is in a state of emergency due to extreme weather conditions. A landslide on Wednesday near the Mata Vaishno Devi Dham in the Reasi district has caused significant casualties, with at least 31 fatalities and 23 injuries. Rescue operations are ongoing to search for survivors and provide assistance to those affected.
The Jammu-Katra highway is currently closed due to the landslide, impacting transportation in the region. The Northern Railway has taken action by canceling 22 trains and adjusting the routes of 27 others. Included in the affected services are 9 trains departing from the Vaishno Devi base camp.
The persistent rain has amplified the risk of both flooding and further landslides. The areas of Jammu city, Kathua, Udhampur, Samba, and Reasi are significantly impacted. Infrastructure has been severely damaged, including collapsed bridges, and damaged mobile towers and power lines.
A combined effort involving the local authorities, the army, the NDRF, and the SDRF is underway to provide relief. More than 3,500 people have been moved to safe areas. The affected individuals are being provided with essential supplies, including food, water, and medical assistance, at temporary camps.
The meteorological department has cautioned that cloud formations are reaching 12 km in height, suggesting the potential for more severe weather events and increased rainfall in the days ahead.