RAJOURI, July 19: Torrential overnight rain unleashed flash floods across Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district in the early hours of Saturday, inundating large parts of the town, sweeping away vehicles, damaging homes, and claiming lives in Rajouri and neighbouring Poonch districts.
The worst-hit area was the New Bus Stand at Bella, where the swollen Dharhal River overflowed after incessant rainfall, turning the bus stand into a raging torrent. Dramatic videos from the scene showed floodwaters carrying away parked vehicles as the entire parking area was submerged.
A local resident described the devastation, saying, "There has been significant damage—approximately 200 to 250 cars are missing. This happened around 3 AM. There is absolutely no trace left of the bus stand."
Authorities said several vehicles parked at the bus stand were either washed away or severely damaged after floodwaters inundated the area. Extensive damage to public infrastructure and private property has also been reported, while assessment of losses is underway.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said he had reviewed the situation with senior officials following the flash floods in Rajouri and Poonch.
He said rescue teams from the civil administration, police, Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local volunteers were carrying out rescue and relief operations in the affected areas. Families living in vulnerable locations have been shifted to safer places, while all departments have been placed on high alert to restore essential services and undertake repair work.
Expressing grief over the loss of lives in Rajouri and the Haveli and Surankote areas of Poonch district, the Lieutenant Governor said he had directed officials to provide immediate assistance to affected families and ensure emergency teams remain fully prepared for any further eventuality.
Officials have appealed to residents to remain vigilant, avoid venturing near rivers and streams, and follow official advisories as the region continues to receive heavy rainfall. Rescue operations and damage assessment are continuing.
