KISHTWAR, August 14, 2025 — Disaster struck Jammu & Kashmir’s Kishtwar district when a massive cloudburst unleashed flash floods on Chasoti village, devastating the annual Machail Mata yatra and plunging pilgrims and locals into chaos and fear. As floodwaters tore through the last motorable point en route to Machail Mata temple, the death toll continues to rise, with dozens feared dead and many still missing. The scene is a harrowing blend of heroism, heartbreak, and hope as rescue operations race against time.
NDRF Leads Life-Saving Rescue Operations
With warnings of heavy rain and flash floods preceding the disaster, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed nearly 180 members equipped with advanced rescue gear into the mountainous region. Battling washed-out roads, landslides, and relentless downpours, NDRF teams coordinated with local police, Army, SDRF, and civil administration—evacuating stranded pilgrims, providing medical aid to the injured, and reassuring devastated families. Chopper sorties and ambulances joined the effort, though bad weather hampered aerial rescues.
Leaders React Swiftly; Control Rooms Mobilised
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha quickly responded, assuring all possible central and state assistance to survivors and affected communities. Control rooms and emergency helplines were flooded with frantic requests as families and friends sought news of missing loved ones. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other top officials directed massive rescue and relief mobilization, vowing to leave no stone unturned to restore normalcy and safeguard lives.
Machail Mata Yatra Suspended; Community Unites in Grief
The annual pilgrimage was halted mid-flow as floodwaters ravaged parking lots, langar tents (community kitchens), and campgrounds, leaving infrastructural destruction in their wake. Stories of villagers and pilgrims forming human chains and pulling trapped individuals from the torrents have gone viral across social media, igniting nationwide solidarity and support with trending hashtags like #KishtwarCloudburst and #NDRFRescue.
Facing Adversity with Resilience
Despite inclement weather, damaged roads, and blocked routes, relief efforts continue around the clock. Emergency supplies, medical teams, and rescue workers persevere amidst the chaos. Pilgrims and residents rally together, exemplifying courage and unity in the face of overwhelming adversity.
