Diplomat Correspondent
Kathua, (DD) In a tragic turn of events, flash floods triggered by incessant rains in Kathua district have claimed the lives of seven people, including four children, leaving the entire region in shock and grief.
According to officials, two of the victims — Renu Devi (39) and her nine-year-old daughter Radhika, both residents of Bagra, Janglot in Tehsil Kathua — were swept away when gushing waters entered their locality.
In another heart-wrenching incident in Jode village, five members of two families lost their lives. The deceased have been identified as Surmu Din (30), his sons Fanu (6) and Shedu (5), along with Tahu (2), son of Habib Deen, and Zulfan (15), daughter of Bashir Ahmed.
Rescue teams from the district administration, police, and SDRF rushed to the affected areas, retrieving the bodies after hours of search operations amid heavy rainfall and treacherous conditions. Local villagers also joined the efforts, braving the rising water levels in the hope of saving lives.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua confirmed the casualties and said relief operations are underway. “We are providing immediate assistance to the affected families and ensuring that medical and shelter facilities are in place,” he said.
Officials have advised residents living near water bodies and vulnerable slopes to remain vigilant as more rains have been predicted by the Meteorological Department over the next two days.
Meanwhile, grief has engulfed the villages of Bagra and Jode, where multiple families have been devastated. Community members have gathered in large numbers to mourn the dead and extend support to the bereaved households.(DD)