A cloudburst in Kishtwar has claimed at least 37 lives and left over 100 injured along the path to the Machail Mata temple in Jammu and Kashmir.

On Thursday afternoon a powerful cloudburst devastated Chositi village in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. More than 38 people have killed in the tragic incident of flood . The calamity struck between 12 and 1 pm near the final vehicle-accessible spot on the way to the Machail Mata temple, where hundreds had gathered for the annual pilgrimage.

After the Kishtwar cloudburst, 120 people were rescued, and the Machail Mata pilgrimage was suspended.

According to authorities report that over 120 people, including two CISF personnel, have been rescued, while those injured are receiving treatment in local hospitals.

The flash floods wreaked havoc, demolishing several structures such as a langar, shops, and a security post. The Machail Mata Yatra, which started on July 25 and was scheduled to end on September 5, has now been suspended.

Political leaders have shared their grief and sympathies with the affected families.

On twitter, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep concern over the cloudburst in Kishtwar, saying his heart goes out to everyone affected.

He affirmed that the government is keeping a close eye on the situation and that rescue teams are actively working. He promised that every kind of support would reach those who need it.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju sorrow on X, he said he is heartbroken by the cloudburst in Chosoti, Kishtwar. He extended heartfelt condolences to those who lost loved ones and hoped for the swift recovery of the injured.

Massive Rescue Operation in Progress

Multiple agencies, including the Army, NDRF, SDRF, police, and local volunteers, are conducting extensive rescue operations, with more NDRF units being sent from Jammu. The Army’s White Knight Corps reported that relief supplies, medical teams, and rescue equipment have been quickly deployed to assist the victims.