Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir | August 14, 2025
A catastrophic cloudburst struck the remote mountain village of Chosoti (also spelled Chashoti) in Kishtwar district during the early afternoon, unleashing torrential rains, flash floods, and landslides that devastated the Machail Mata Yatra pilgrimage route.
Casualties & Impact
38 people died, including two CISF personnel, according to official reports.
At least 37 confirmed dead, with around 50 missing
Regional sources report 40 fatalities, 120 rescued, and numerous critically injured.
Over 100–150 injured, many in serious condition. Rescue teams have evacuated 150+ people so far.
The variance in casualty figures reflects the challenging terrain and ongoing rescue efforts.
Rescue & Relief Operations
Agencies including NDRF, SDRF, Army, Police, local volunteers, and military personnel have been deployed.
A control room and help desk have been established to coordinate efforts.
Helicopter evacuations are underway due to impassable roads.
Rescue operations continue despite continued rain, washed-out infrastructure, and landslides.
Pilgrimage Disrupted
The Machail Mata Yatra pilgrimage has been suspended. Many pilgrims were present at the community kitchen (langar) and parking area when the flash floods struck.
Official Response
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described the incident as heartbreaking and directed all agencies to intensify rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu extended condolences and assured that “every possible assistance” will be provided.
Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that NDRF resources are fully engaged in operations, and CM Omar Abdullah canceled cultural events planned for Independence Day.
Political figures across parties—including Farooq Abdullah, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi—expressed deep sorrow and urged intensified relief efforts.
Context & Environmental Concerns
Experts note that climate change, fragile Himalayan terrain, and unplanned development projects (like hydroelectric schemes) have increased the region’s vulnerability to such disaster events.
