PM Modi Speaks To J&K Leadership; Oversees Kishtwar Relief Operations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding the aftermath of the Kishtwar cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir. He assessed the situation and assured full government assistance for those affected.

CM Omar Abdullah briefed the Prime Minister on administrative steps and expressed gratitude for the Union Government’s support.

The disaster struck Chashoti in Paddar sub-division, claiming 45 lives, including two CISF personnel, and injuring over 120 people, with 35 in serious condition. Many remain missing under the debris.

The cloudburst also destroyed homes, six government buildings, three temples, cowsheds, a bridge, and temporary structures, including a community kitchen serving Machail Mata Yatra devotees.

Authorities launched a joint rescue effort with the SDRF, police, Army, and local volunteers. They also deployed additional NDRF teams. Over 300 soldiers supported rescue operations.

Chashoti, the last motorable village on the road to Machail Mata temple, saw the suspension of the Yatra, which had started on 25 July.

Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma confirmed that authorities mobilised all available resources to assist residents. Teams from BRO’s 118 RCC cleared roads and erected temporary bridges, while the Deputy Commissioner and SSP Kishtwar supervised operations on-site.

Medical Response

Authorities reinforced Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Paddar with 13 doctors and 31 paramedics.

District Hospital Kishtwar received additional surgeons and anaesthetists from GMC Doda. They also placed tertiary care facilities, including GMC Jammu and PGIMER Chandigarh, on full readiness with disaster beds, ventilators, operating theatres, and specialist teams.

Authorities deployed 65 ambulances from the Health Department, NHPC, Army, CRPF, and 108 Emergency Service for patient transfers. Officials augmented the GMC Jammu Blood Bank with over 200 units of blood.

PM Modi’s prompt intervention underscores the government’s commitment to rapid disaster response. The Union and J&K authorities are coordinating closely on rescue, relief, and restoration of critical infrastructure. Affected communities continue to receive medical, logistical, and administrative support.

This response highlights the importance of preparedness and swift coordination between central and state agencies to mitigate natural disaster impacts.

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