Jammu, Aug 14, 2025 – At least 17 people were killed and 65 rescued after a massive cloudburst struck Chositi village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday afternoon, triggering flash floods and widespread destruction.
The disaster hit between 12 noon and 1 pm, as hundreds had gathered in Chositi – the last motorable point before the Machail Mata shrine – for the annual yatra. The 8.5 km trek to the 9,500-ft-high temple starts from this village.
A ‘langar’ (community kitchen) set up for devotees bore the brunt, with floodwaters washing away shops, homes, and a security post. Several houses in the foothills were also damaged.
Rescue teams led by Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and the SSP reached the site, with two NDRF teams rushed from Udhampur. The yatra has been suspended as all resources are diverted to rescue and relief efforts.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh said the administration had swung into action immediately. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, along with several political leaders, expressed grief and directed authorities to ensure maximum assistance to victims.
BJP leader Jehanzaib Sirwal warned that unchecked hydropower projects could be worsening the region’s environmental vulnerability, urging urgent review and safeguards.
Officials fear the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue in the remote, flood-hit zone.
