Three people were killed and over 100 others were saved early on Sunday in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir due to flash floods caused by heavy rain, according to officials.In addition, traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was blocked by landslides.The village was hit by flash floods that damaged about 40 residential homes.The overflowing stream also carried away a number of cars.
Rescue efforts were carried out by police officers to save the stranded villagers in spite of difficult circumstances, such as persistent rain and cloudbursts.Due to numerous mudslides, landslides, authorities were compelled to stop traffic on the crucial highway in both directions due to stone shooting between the Banihal and Nashri sections. “It was recommended that people avoid using the arterial road untilthe weather improved and the road cleared because the rain was still continuing along the highway,” a traffic department spokesperson stated.
“The Ramban region, including the areas surrounding the Ramban town, experienced a heavy hailstorm, multiple landslides, and fast winds throughout the night,” and regrettably, three people have died and several families have lost property. Dr Jitendra Singh, Member of Parliament posted on X,
#Ramban #JammuAndKashmir: There was a heavy hailstorm, multiple landslides and fast winds throughout the night in the Ramban region, including the areas surrounding the Ramban town. The National Highway stands blocked and unfortunately there have been 3 casualties and loss of…
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) April 20, 2025
The chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, expressed his sadness over the deaths in Ramban and acknowledged the situation.He stated in a post on X:”Very saddened by the terrible flash flood and landslip in Ramban, which have severely damaged property and killed many people.”Where necessary, we are in communication with the local government to guarantee prompt rescue operations.Plans for repair, relief, and restoration will be reviewed later today.The emphasis is still on handling the situation on the ground for the time being. Travel advisories should be followed, and citizens should refrain from moving around in vulnerable areas unless absolutely necessary.
Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban, which have caused considerable damage to life and property. My thoughts are with the affected families in this difficult hour. We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts…
— Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) April 20, 2025
An active western disturbance had previously prompted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an alert on April 19 warning of severe weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir from April 18 to 20.Heavy rain, thunderstorms,hailstorms, and gusty winds were predicted.
Significant structural damage, tree uprooting, and disruptions to power and road connectivity were caused by a sudden spell of strong winds and rain that swept through parts of the Union Territories on April 17. One of the worst hit districts was Udhampur, where many trees were uprooted, seriously disrupting traffic.Numerous localities reported widespread power outages, and several local roads were blocked.
