A devastating cloudburst struck the Chosoti area of Kishtwar district early Thursday, disrupting the annual Machail Mata Yatra and leaving at least 10 people feared dead.
The remote village, located along the pilgrimage route, was overwhelmed by flash floods, prompting an urgent response from local authorities and central agencies.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed the incident and stated that rescue teams had been dispatched immediately. The administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and SSP Naresh Singh, is actively coordinating relief efforts on the ground. A team headed by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Paddar has already reached the affected zone.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and directed the Civil Administration, Police, Army, NDRF, and SDRF to intensify rescue operations. “Anguished by the cloudburst in Chosoti, Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families and prayers for the quick recovery of the injured,” he posted on X.
The Machail Mata Yatra has been suspended until further notice, and arrangements for medical aid and temporary shelters are underway. Officials are assessing infrastructural damage and ensuring that stranded pilgrims receive necessary support.
This incident raises renewed concerns about climate volatility in the Himalayan region, with experts pointing to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.
