37 die in Kashmir mountain flood
Kishtwar Hospital Crowds Amid Himalayan Flood Disaster
The Kishtwar district in Indian‑administered Kashmir faced a devastating rain‑driven flood on Thursday, leaving at least 37 people dead and 150 wounded. Rescue teams worked through days of heavy storm damage, bringing injured patients on stretchers to a local hospital.
Key Numbers and Official Statements
- 37 dead bodies recovered – no missing persons count yet.
- 150 wounded rescued, 50 severely injured, sent to nearby hospitals.
- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described a “cloudburst” of intense rain.
- Pandit Kumar Sharma, district commissioner, warned about chances of more bodies being found.
Impact on Pilgrimage Community
The flood hit Chisoti village, a pilgrimage route to the Machail Mata shrine. A large makeshift kitchen hosting over 100 unregistered pilgrims was swept away. Rescue teams faced difficulties reaching the area, with soldiers joining the effort. Roads were already damaged by continuous storms.
President’s Commitment
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged: “Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need.”
Monsoon Season and Climate Concerns
Floods and landslides are common from June to September, but climate change and poorly planned development are increasing their frequency and severity. The UN World Meteorological Organization warned that increasingly intense floods and droughts signal an unpredictable water cycle.
Additional Monsoon Disaster in Uttarakhand
Earlier this month, August 5 floods swept away the Himalayan town of Dharali in Uttarakhand, burying it in mud. The likely death toll from that disaster is more than 70 but remains unconfirmed.
