Heavy rains lash J&K; cloudburst hits Kishtwar, schools shut in Kishtwar and Doda

at 8:29 am
File photo

Jammu Aug 1 (NVI): Heavy rains lashed several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, while a cloudburst in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district triggered flash floods, washing away vehicles and forcing the closure of schools in Kishtwar and Doda districts, officials said.

The cloudburst occurred around 2.30 am in Chatroo, resulting in flash floods that swept away several vehicles and caused damage to property, they said.

No loss of life or injuries has been reported so far, officials added.

The heavy rainfall also affected several parts of the Kashmir Valley, including Kulgam, Anantnag, Shopian, Pulwama, Pampore, Srinagar and Ganderbal.

The Chatroo-Kishtwar National Highway was closed for vehicular traffic following the cloudburst, while authorities launched an assessment of the damage caused by the flash floods.

As a precautionary measure amid continuous rainfall, slippery road conditions and the possibility of shooting stones, the district administrations of Kishtwar and Doda ordered the closure of all government and private schools on Saturday.

Officials said online classes would be conducted to ensure that academic activities continue without disruption.

Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas until weather conditions improve.(NVI)