By Srinagar, April 21:
Jammu and Kashmir is reeling under the impact of relentless torrential rains that have battered the region for the past 48 hours. The continuous downpour has triggered flash floods, landslides, and large-scale destruction, especially across the Kashmir Valley and areas along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44). The adverse weather conditions have so far claimed three lives, displaced multiple families, and prompted the closure of all schools in the valley for precautionary reasons.
Weather Warnings and Widespread Flooding
According to the Meteorological Department, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue across various parts of the region over the next 24 hours. The Kashmir valley has witnessed incessant rainfall, leading to rising water levels in rivers and local streams, flash floods in low-lying areas, and extensive waterlogging in urban and semi-urban zones.
In several areas of Srinagar, as well as in parts of South Kashmir, streets have been submerged, electricity supplies disrupted, and public infrastructure severely damaged. The water levels in the Jhelum and its tributaries are being closely monitored, with fears of further flooding if rains continue.
Three Killed, Dozens of Homes Destroyed
The extreme weather has already resulted in the loss of three lives, local officials confirmed. Multiple incidents of wall collapses, landslides, and accidental drownings have been reported across rural belts. In total, over 30 houses have either collapsed or been swept away in flash floods, leaving families without shelter and in urgent need of aid.
Rescue efforts have been underway, but difficult terrain and ongoing rainfall have posed significant challenges for response teams. The affected families are being temporarily accommodated in government buildings and relief camps established by local administrations.
Jammu-Srinagar Highway Closed
The 250 km-long Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44) — the only all-weather road connecting Kashmir with the rest of India — has been closed from both ends. Landslides and falling rocks have blocked the road at multiple points between Nashri and Banihal, leaving hundreds of vehicles, including those carrying perishable goods and essential supplies, stranded.
A senior official from the traffic department stated that no movement of vehicles would be allowed on the route until restoration is complete and the weather improves. Restoration crews are on-site, working under dangerous conditions to clear debris and restore the crucial highway link.
Rescue and Relief Operations in Full Swing
State and central authorities have deployed joint teams from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indian Army, and other agencies. Additionally, civil defense volunteers and NGOs have joined efforts to assist affected residents. The priority is to evacuate those in danger zones, provide food and medical care to displaced families, and ensure the safety of livestock and property wherever possible.
Many areas are also facing power outages and telecommunication disruptions, further complicating relief operations and public communication.
Schools Closed as Precaution
In light of the escalating weather crisis, the Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir announced the suspension of classwork across all schools in the Kashmir valley for Monday, April 21.
The announcement was made by Education Minister Sakina Ittoo, who posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“In light of the continuing severe weather conditions and forecasts, it has been decided that classwork in all schools of the valley shall remain suspended for one day on April 21. This decision has been taken as a precautionary step to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.”
Parents have welcomed the move, calling it a necessary safety measure, especially in flood-prone areas where commuting to schools can pose serious risks.
Authorities Issue Public Advisory
Citizens are urged to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly on vulnerable roads near hills and rivers. The administration has also advised travelers and truck operators to delay or reroute their journeys to avoid being stranded on closed routes. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for continued heavy rainfall, urging citizens to remain vigilant.
In a press briefing, local disaster management authorities confirmed that control rooms are active and helpline numbers have been circulated to the public. The health department is also on alert to handle waterborne diseases and emergencies arising from the current weather conditions.
Looking Ahead
While restoration efforts are being carried out on a war footing, the full extent of damage and displacement is still being assessed. Relief supplies, including tents, dry rations, medicines, and blankets, are being dispatched to the worst-affected districts.
The people of Jammu and Kashmir are no strangers to the fury of nature, but this current spell of torrential rain serves as a grim reminder of the fragile balance between human habitation and Himalayan weather patterns. As the valley waits for the rain to subside, hopes rest on coordinated efforts by authorities and the resilience of its people.
