Full Report: Doda Cloudburst and Flash Floods in Jammu and Kashmir

Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc in Doda

Continuous rainfall over the past three days has caused widespread destruction in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, with two cloudbursts reported in Bhalessa and Thathri areas. Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh, confirmed that at least three lives have been lost – two in Gandhoh and one in Thathri subdivision.

The cloudbursts triggered flash floods in rivers and streams, sweeping away stretches of NH-244, damaging over 15 residential houses, multiple cow sheds, a private health centre, and washing away three vital footbridges.

Rivers Overflowing: Flood Alerts Across Jammu & Kashmir

Authorities have issued flood alerts as water levels in major rivers surge:

• Neeru River (Bhaderwah) – flowing above danger mark.

• Chenab River – dangerously close to its highest flood level (HFL) of 900 ft, already at 899.3 metres.

• Tawi River (Jammu) – swollen, prompting advisories to avoid riverbanks.

• Sheshnag Nallah (Pahalgam) – breached record levels at 6.02 ft, surpassing the danger mark.

• Jhelum River – IMD predicts rising levels in lower and middle stretches due to incessant rainfall.

The rising waters have forced evacuations from vulnerable areas, with emergency shelters being set up.

Road Blockades and Landslides: Jammu-Srinagar Highway Shut

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed after multiple landslides in Ramban district, leaving traffic completely stranded. Rocks tumbling from hill slopes continue to pose threats to commuters. Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.

Vaishno Devi Yatra Suspended

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) suspended the holy pilgrimage due to continuous heavy rains. Initially, the Himkoti route was closed, but worsening conditions led to a complete suspension of the yatra.

Officials assured that the safety of devotees is the top priority, and the pilgrimage will resume once weather stabilizes.

Schools and Colleges Shut in Jammu

In view of the severe weather and safety concerns, the Jammu administration announced that all schools and colleges (government & private) will remain closed till August 27, 2025. Parents have been advised to ensure students stay indoors and avoid flood-prone zones.

Government & Administration Response

• Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed he is in touch with Doda DC and monitoring the situation closely.

• J&K CM Omar Abdullah called the situation “serious” and said he will travel to Jammu to personally oversee relief efforts. Additional emergency funds have been allocated to district administrations.

• Police & SDRF teams are carrying out rescue and evacuation operations, ensuring stranded residents are moved to safer locations.

Helpline Numbers Released for Affected Residents

The Poonch Police have issued dedicated helpline numbers for public assistance:

📞 SSP Poonch – +91 9596580785
📞 ASP Poonch – +91 9622492727
📞 PCR Poonch (Control Room) – +91 9086253188 / 01965-220258

Residents have been urged to contact these helplines for emergencies, evacuation needs, or flood-related incidents.

Current Situation & Outlook

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted continued rainfall in the region for the next 24 hours, with gradual receding expected thereafter. Authorities are on high alert, monitoring river levels, and prioritizing rescue and relief efforts.

The tragic loss of lives, suspension of religious pilgrimage, school closures, and widespread property damage underline the serious impact of the Doda cloudburst and highlight the urgent need for preventive infrastructure in flood-prone areas of Jammu & Kashmir.

Would you like me to extend this into a 2000+ word long-form news explainer, including:

• History of cloudbursts in J&K (2010 Leh, 2021 Kishtwar, 2022 Amarnath)

• Why Doda & Chenab Valley are prone to flash floods

• Expert insights on climate change impact on J&K rainfall patterns

• Safety guidelines for locals and pilgrims during cloudburst season?

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