30 Dead as Heavy Rains Trigger Massive Landslide in Jammu
Jammu: At least 30 people lost their lives after a powerful landslide swept through a popular Hindu pilgrimage route in Jammu following torrential rains, news agency ANI reported on Wednesday.
The incident occurred near the Vaishno Devi shrine, a site visited by thousands of devotees each year. The sudden downpour caused a huge landslide, blocking paths and causing severe destruction. Officials said the region experienced extreme rainfall – around 368 mm (14.5 inches) in just one day on Tuesday.
The heavy rains have also led to widespread flooding across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Ladakh. The Meteorological Department has predicted more rainfall for the Himalayan belt, prompting authorities to issue fresh warnings, especially at night.
Communication networks remain badly affected, with efforts underway to restore mobile and internet services. Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, said that connectivity in some areas was “almost nonexistent” as a result of the storm.
To ensure safety, local authorities have ordered the closure of schools and educational institutions in Jammu until further notice.
The rescue and recovery operations are ongoing as officials monitor the situation closely. Weather experts have advised residents to avoid travel in landslide-prone areas until conditions improve.
Source: ANI / Reuters
