The death toll from Thursday’s devastating cloudburst in Chesoti village, Paddar, along the Machail Mata Yatra route has climbed to 45, with more than 100 people injured and many still missing, officials confirmed on Friday.
Kishtwar Additional Superintendent of Police Pradeep Singh told ANI that joint rescue teams from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire Services, CISF, CRPF, and the Army are on the ground conducting intensive search and relief operations. “Over 100 injured have been shifted for treatment, and the identification of victims is ongoing. Ambulances and locals are working alongside police and rescue teams,” he said.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. when a large number of devotees were participating in the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden deluge swept through the area, trapping pilgrims and residents.
In response, Kishtwar Police have established control rooms and help desks across the district to assist affected citizens and pilgrims, particularly in remote regions. Families of missing persons have been urged to contact dedicated helplines at the District Control Room and Police Control Room.
Local MLA and J&K Leader of Opposition Sunil Kumar Sharma described the disaster as one of the worst in the area’s history, confirming that at least 42 bodies had been retrieved by Thursday evening. He expressed hope that improved weather conditions might allow helicopter-based rescue operations.
At District Hospital Kishtwar, Medical Superintendent Dr. Yudhvir Singh Kotwal reported receiving 88 patients, with 36 referred to Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu for advanced treatment. Two unidentified bodies are awaiting identification.
Survivors recounted scenes of chaos and devastation. Pilgrim Vishal Mehra said, “We had just finished tea when the Army warned us to run. Moments later, we were trapped in debris. My sister and nephew are still missing.” Another victim recalled being swept away, pinned under a car, while his mother was trapped under an electricity pole before being rescued.
Rescue operations remain ongoing under the direct supervision of DGP J&K Police Nalin Prabhat, with authorities racing against time to locate the missing and provide aid to the injured.
