Heavy rainfall triggered flash floods across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting authorities to launch rescue operations in Rajouri district and temporarily suspend the Amarnath and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi yatras as a precautionary measure.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he has been closely monitoring the situation since early Sunday, particularly in Rajouri and nearby areas that witnessed cloudburst-like rainfall. He stated that the administration’s immediate priority is to protect lives and provide assistance to those affected by the floods.
In a post on X, Abdullah said he has remained in contact with local representatives and assured that the government will extend all possible support to families who have suffered property damage due to the heavy rains and flash floods.
The intense rainfall, which began on Saturday night, inundated residential colonies and low-lying areas in Rajouri, causing extensive damage to homes, vehicles and commercial establishments. One woman has been reported missing, while rescue and search operations continue in the affected region.
As a precaution against worsening weather, authorities suspended the Amarnath Yatra from July 19 following an adverse weather forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The suspension applies to both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes, with no fresh movement of pilgrims allowed from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps until further notice.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said the pilgrimage will resume only after a detailed assessment of weather conditions and route safety. Officials will issue updates once conditions improve.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended due to the same weather advisory. Authorities have urged devotees to postpone their travel plans and follow official announcements regarding the resumption of the pilgrimages.
According to official data, more than 3.7 lakh devotees have visited the Amarnath cave shrine during the ongoing pilgrimage season.