20th April, Jammu & Kashmir:
Seri Banga village in Jammu & Kashmir’s Ramban district has experienced devastating rainfall, landslides, and cloudbursts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), in the 24 hours ending 8:30 am on April 20, Jammu and Kashmir received 16.9 mm of rainfall, which is a 575% departure from the normal of 2.5 mm.
The building collapse disrupted transport. Due to incessant rainfall, national highways were closed at several places. In Ramban, houses and hotels were damaged; several vehicles were also swept away by an overflowing stream, adding damage across the region. Three people were killed, but despite ongoing rainfall, police teams managed to rescue over 100 residents from affected regions.
Heavy rains have caused flash floods in Dharamkund village, and more than 40 houses were damaged, but 10 were destroyed. Due to extreme weather conditions, the Jammu & Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) has been closed. Landslides, mudslides, and falling rocks along the Nashri-Banihal stretch have made large sections of the 250-kilometer highway impassable, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), in the 24 hours ending 8:30 am on April 20, Kashmir received 16.9 mm of rainfall, a 575% departure from the normal of 2.5 mm. Taking note of the situation, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed sadness over the loss of lives in Ramban.
In a post on X, he said, “Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban, which has caused considerable damage to life and property. We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts wherever needed. Later today, I will be reviewing restoration, relief, and repair plans. For now, the focus remains on managing the situation on the ground. Citizens are advised to follow travel advisories and avoid nonessential movement in vulnerable areas.”
