Flash floods struck Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday after intense overnight rainfall caused rivers and streams to overflow, inundating several low-lying areas and forcing hundreds of residents to move to safer locations. Officials said continuous rain since Saturday evening triggered rising water levels across the border district, causing widespread disruption in Rajouri town and nearby areas. The administration and emergency teams have been deployed to assist affected residents and assess the damage caused by the flooding.

Several major water bodies in Rajouri, including the Darhali, Khandli, Suktoh, and Jamola rivers, swelled significantly following the heavy downpour, with many flowing close to or above danger levels. Officials said the Darhali River breached a flood protection wall near Bela Colony, allowing floodwaters to enter the new bus stand area. Dozens of vehicles were reportedly washed away or submerged as water entered the area, causing major inconvenience to commuters and residents.

The flooding severely affected vulnerable settlements, including the slum area near Abdullah Bridge, where more than 50 families were forced to evacuate after water entered homes and surrounding areas. Localities near Tariq Bridge also witnessed flooding, prompting police teams to respond to emergency calls and help residents move away from riverbanks. Rescue and relief personnel, along with local authorities, continued evacuation efforts while monitoring areas at risk of further flooding.

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Police teams were deployed across vulnerable locations, making public announcements and advising residents in low-lying areas to leave immediately due to the continued threat of rising water levels. A police official said teams were responding to distress calls and prioritising the prevention of loss of life, adding that the full extent of property damage would be assessed after floodwaters recede. The district administration has issued a public advisory urging people to remain alert, while control rooms have been established to coordinate emergency assistance.

The weather department has warned of moderate to heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir until July 23, raising concerns over further flooding in vulnerable areas. Rajouri MLA Iftikhar Ahmad returned to the district to review the situation, stating that he had cancelled his scheduled political programme to support affected residents. He urged authorities to begin immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts for families impacted by the flash floods, as officials continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance.

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