J&K Flash Floods 60 Dead, Over 100 Injured After Cloudburst on Machail Mata Yatra Route in Kishtwar
At least 60 pilgrims were killed and over 100 injured after a cloudburst triggered flash floods on the Machail Mata Yatra route in Kishtwar, J&K. Rescue operations are underway as several remain missing.
Rescue teams search for survivors after a cloudburst-triggered flash flood hit pilgrims on the Machail Mata Yatra route in Kishtwar’s Chasoti village.
A devastating cloudburst struck Chasoti village in Jammu & Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday afternoon, claiming at least 60 lives—most of them pilgrims on the Machail Mata Yatra—and leaving over 100 injured. Rescue teams fear the death toll may rise as several people remain missing.
Disaster Strikes During Annual Pilgrimage
The incident occurred between 12 and 1 pm at Chasoti, the last motorable point on the pilgrimage route to the 9,500-feet-high Machail Mata temple. Hundreds of devotees had gathered for langar (community meal) when flash floods swept through the area.
- Victims: Predominantly pilgrims trekking to the shrine.
- Rescued: Over 160 people; 38 in critical condition.
- Missing: Several, including three CISF personnel.
One CISF official’s body has been recovered. The missing personnel were deployed for temporary security duties during the yatra.
Rescue Efforts in Harsh Conditions
Heavy rains, debris, and challenging terrain have slowed rescue operations. The Army, NDRF, SDRF, police, and local administration are working round the clock to locate survivors and provide medical aid.
Leaders Respond
J&K CM Omar Abdullah confirmed the grim situation after speaking with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saying all possible resources were being mobilised for rescue operations.
LG Manoj Sinha expressed grief and directed officials to intensify rescue efforts and ensure maximum assistance to the affected families.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh assured full central support, stating that damage assessment and relief arrangements are underway.
Cloudburst Impact Across the Region
The tragedy comes amid heavy monsoon rains across northern India, with hill states like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh facing landslides, floods, and road blockages.
In Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, landslides blocked key roads after continuous rainfall.
In Himachal Pradesh, 396 roads remain closed due to flash floods and cloudbursts, with several houses and vehicles damaged.
About the Machail Mata Yatra
The Machail Mata temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga, located in the remote Paddar valley of Kishtwar. Pilgrims undertake a challenging journey, with the final 8.5 km on foot from Chasoti. The annual yatra draws thousands from across the country.
