Flash floods due to cloud burst in J&K's Ramban kills 3 people, over 100 people rescued

A devastating flash flood triggered by intense overnight rainfall has caused widespread destruction in Dharamkund village, located near the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district. The sudden natural disaster has claimed three lives and left one person missing, while causing significant damage to property, infrastructure, and displacing scores of residents.

Authorities report that the water level in a nearby nallah surged dramatically following relentless rainfall, eventually bursting into Dharamkund village near the Chenab bridge. The powerful floodwaters, accompanied by landslides and a hailstorm, tore through the village in the dark hours of the night, leaving a trail of destruction behind.

At least ten houses were completely razed to the ground, while around 25 to 30 homes suffered partial damage. However, thanks to the quick response by Dharamkund police and the district administration, around 90 to 100 residents were rescued and shifted to safer locations. Many of the evacuees included women, children, and the elderly.

Grim visuals from the site depict the scale of the disaster—muddy waters crashing through residential buildings, homes reduced to rubble, and vehicles damaged beyond repair. Rescue operations were in full swing as teams waded through floodwaters to protect affected families.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed grief over the casualties and praised the swift actions taken by the local administration. “There was a heavy hailstorm, multiple landslides, and strong winds throughout the night in the Ramban region. The National Highway remains blocked, and unfortunately, we have lost three lives while several families are suffering from property loss,” Singh said.

He also confirmed that he has been in regular contact with Deputy Commissioner Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary and assured that every form of assistance, including financial help, is being provided to the affected families. “I will contribute personally if necessary. I urge people not to panic—we will overcome this tragedy together,” he added.