Jammu, Aug 14
At least 23 dead bodies were recovered, while 75 others were injured in a massive cloudburst which hit Chositi village of Padder Sub-division of Kishtwar on Thursday.
An official said that the injured are being shifted to the hospital, while helicopters have been pressed into service to evacuate the injured.
“A massive joint rescue operation is going on in the area,” the official said.
MoS (PMO) Jitendra Singh confirmed that the cloudburst hit Chositi, adding that the rescue operation has already been started.
Singh said rescue teams have already been dispatched to the site to carry out damage assessment and provide necessary rescue and medical assistance.
He assured that his office is receiving regular updates and all possible support will be extended to the affected area.
J&K L-G Manoj Sinha said on X, “Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. “Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for the quick recovery of the injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected.”