A devastating cloudburst struck Chositi, a remote village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, on Thursday, leaving at least 10 people feared dead along the Machail Mata Yatra route, officials reported. The disaster hit the last motorable village en route to the revered shrine, unleashing flash floods that caused widespread destruction.

The annual Machail Mata Yatra has been halted as authorities scramble to deploy all available resources for a massive rescue and relief operation. Teams led by Sub-divisional Magistrate, Padder, have reached the site, confirming the grim toll so far. Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and Senior Superintendent of Police Naresh Singh are en route to oversee efforts to save lives and assess the damage.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow, stating on X, “Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected.”

Also Read: Army’s Daring Rescue Saves Four in Himachal Floods

Union Minister Jitendra Singh, after consulting with Deputy Commissioner Sharma, posted on X, “A massive Cloud burst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty. Administration has immediately swung into action, rescue team has left for the site.”

As rescue operations intensify, the focus remains on providing urgent medical aid and support to those impacted by this tragic natural calamity in Kishtwar’s rugged terrain.

Also Read: Uttarkashi Flash Flood: Dharali Devastation Leaves Eyewitnesses Reeling in Shock