Kishtwar Cloudburst: Torrential rains cause devastation in Drabshala; Roads blocked, many vehicles stranded

Jammu, June 2:
In Kishtwar, the weather suddenly took a turn in Thathari, Drabshala, Sailana, Saroor, Sarthal Gahan and surrounding areas of the district on Tuesday afternoon.

The heavy rains accompanied by heavy thunderstorms badly affected normal life. Due to heavy rains leading to the accumulation of huge amounts of debris, boulders and silt on the roads. It blocked many roads for traffic.
According to the information, the sudden bursting drains in Thathri area brought debris on the roads. Due to which many vehicles were stuck in the middle of the road. Some vehicles are also reported to be buried under the debris.

However, with the promptness and mutual cooperation of the local people, many people were evacuated to safer places.
Schools were closed during the rainy season and school children returning home also faced a lot of difficulties.

The situation was no less serious in Drabshala, Sailana, Sarud and Sarthal Gahan areas. Traffic was completely disrupted due to a huge amount of stones and debris coming on the road near a place called Machchipal.

According to the locals, the nature of the rain was so intense that it seemed as if there was a cloudburst somewhere in the upper hills.

So far, there has been no official report of any loss of life or property. It is a matter of relief. However, people are facing a lot of problems due to debris accumulated on the roads and overflowing drains.

The administration has started immediate relief and restoration work due to the cloudburst and the subsequent debris and strong flow in the Drabshala-Thathari area of
Kishtwar district. This information was given by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma.