Cloudburst claims 3 lives in J&K’s Ramban

A devastating cloudburst early April 20 morning unleashed torrential rain, fierce winds, and hailstorms across the Ramban tehsil of Jammu and Kashmir, leaving a trail of destruction.

At least three lives were lost, nearly 500 residents were evacuated to safety, and vital infrastructure was crippled, as nature’s fury struck without mercy.

According to Ramban Deputy Commissioner Baseer ul Haq, the cloudburst began around 1:10 AM and continued well into the afternoon.

The district administration, already on high alert due to warnings from the Meteorological Department, responded swiftly by issuing emergency announcements from temples and mosques, urging residents to take shelter.

The Emergency Control Centre, operating from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, coordinated rescue operations throughout the night. Revenue and police teams were dispatched to evacuate low-lying areas, relocating nearly 500 people to safer ground.

Tragically, three individuals were buried under debris when their home collapsed in Seri Champa village on the outskirts of Ramban. Their bodies were recovered by rescue teams, who continue to assist those affected.

The relentless downpour triggered landslides along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, forcing its closure and severely disrupting road connectivity. Air travel to Srinagar also faced significant delays and cancellations.

Several residential and commercial properties have suffered extensive damage, while dozens of vehicles were submerged in the mud and debris. Due to ongoing rainfall, officials have stated that a comprehensive assessment of the damage will be conducted once the weather stabilizes.

As the region grapples with the aftermath, emergency teams remain on the ground, working tirelessly to support those displaced and to restore critical services.