Srinagar: Heavy rainfall, cloudbursts and flash floods affected several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, damaging roads, inundating residential areas and disrupting normal life as authorities remained on alert amid continuing inclement weather.
The worst impact was reported from parts of Doda district, while weather-related incidents were also reported from north and south Kashmir, affecting road connectivity and prompting restoration efforts.
In north Kashmir’s Gurez Valley, a cloudburst over Zadigay Nallah in the Tulail sector triggered flash floods, damaging the Kilshay–Zadigay road and causing a sharp rise in the water level of the Kishanganga Nallah. The cloudburst occurred near Zadigay village, sending a surge of water through the stream and disrupting connectivity in the area. Authorities said there was no loss of life or damage to residential property. Tehsildar Tulail Javid Ahmad Dar said assessment teams would be deputed to evaluate the damage and begin restoration of the affected road, while officials continued to monitor the rising water level in the Kishanganga Nallah. Residents living near streams and other vulnerable areas have been advised to remain vigilant.
In south Kashmir, heavy rain triggered flash flooding in parts of Pahalgam, including the Langnie area, where overflowing streams disrupted movement. Similar conditions prevailed in the Aishmuqam belt, where swollen nallahs and continuous rainfall prompted authorities to closely monitor the situation.
Doda district witnessed extensive damage as flash floods and debris flows swept through Gandoh, damaging houses, blocking roads and disrupting normal life. Rescue and restoration teams were pressed into service to clear roads and assess the damage.
The Bhalessa region also experienced intense rainfall, with a cloudburst reported in the Seru area. Although no casualties were reported, the administration advised residents to remain vigilant as heavy rain continued.
Earlier in the day, several houses in the Jakyas area of Doda were inundated after rainwater entered residential premises. Residents alleged that inadequate drainage had aggravated the flooding.
The adverse weather also affected connectivity beyond Jammu and Kashmir. A cloudburst at Jispa in neighbouring Himachal Pradesh led to the closure of the Zanskar–Manali road, prompting authorities to suspend traffic and advise commuters against travelling on the route until it is restored.
Officials said rescue and restoration operations are underway in the affected areas, while damage assessment teams have been deployed to evaluate losses and restore essential services.
With the Meteorological Department forecasting further spells of rain, authorities have advised people, particularly those living near rivers, streams and landslide-prone areas, to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather.
No fatalities were reported in any of the weather-related incidents across the Union Territory till the filing of this report.
