Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir 

A devastating cloudburst in Kishtwar has claimed at least 45 lives, including two CISF jawans, and left over 167 people injured, with more than 220 feared missing. The incident, which also saw initial reports of at least 60 fatalities, occurred on Thursday afternoon, between 12 and 1 pm, at Chasoti village on the sacred Machail Mata Yatra route. An estimated 1,000 to 1,200 pilgrims were present at the site when the disaster struck.

Chasoti, the last motorable point before the 8.5-km trek to the Machail Mata temple, was bustling with devotees for the annual yatra. The sheer force of the flash floods, triggered by the cloudburst, destroyed a 'langar' (community kitchen) set up for pilgrims. Over 160 people have been rescued so far, with 38 reported to be in serious condition.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah, confirming that all possible resources are being mobilised for rescue operations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and support. Union Minister Jitendra Singh and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha have also directed civil, police, army, NDRF, and SDRF officials to strengthen rescue and relief efforts. Search and relief operations continue in the difficult terrain amidst heavy rains and debris.