Rajouri flash floods : Woman dead, vehicles swept away as torrential rain inundates Jammu border town

Flash floods triggered by torrential rain wreaked havoc on Sunday in Jammu’s Rajouri district, leaving one woman dead, sweeping away several vehicles and forcing dozens of families to evacuate. Rescue operations are underway as authorities warn of more rain across Jammu and Kashmir.

The sudden surge in water levels left widespread destruction in its wake. The new bus stand was severely damaged, several vehicles were swept away by floodwaters while many others remained submerged. Authorities also recovered the body of a woman who had gone missing during the flooding.

All major rivers in the district, including the Darhali, Khandli, Suktoh and Jamola, were flowing at or above the danger mark following continuous heavy rainfall.

The Darhali River breached a flood protection wall near Bela Colony, sending floodwaters into the new bus stand and surrounding areas. Dozens of parked vehicles were either washed away or trapped in muddy water.

The slum settlement near Abdullah Bridge was among the worst-affected locations, with more than 48 families forced to leave their homes as floodwaters entered the area.

Localities around Tariq Bridge were also inundated, prompting police to respond to distress calls and assist residents in moving to safer places.

Rescue and relief teams, supported by the local administration, worked overnight to evacuate affected families from flood-hit areas. Authorities have also activated the police control room to coordinate emergency response efforts.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he has been monitoring the situation in Rajouri and nearby areas since Sunday morning.

He stated that he is in constant touch with local MLAs and stressed that protecting lives remains the administration’s immediate priority. The Chief Minister also assured all possible assistance to families affected by the flash floods.

The Meteorological Department has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir until July 23.

Authorities have urged residents to remain alert, avoid flood-prone areas and follow official advisories. Control rooms have also been set up to monitor the evolving weather situation and coordinate relief measures.