Army and NDRF Coordinate Rescue in Kishtwar After Cloudburst
The Indian Army, in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and district administration, is actively conducting rescue operations in Chasoti village, Kishtwar district, following a devastating cloudburst that resulted in at least 60 fatalities and 82 people reported missing. The rescue efforts have been intensified with the deployment of additional troops, specialized equipment, and even explosives to clear giant boulders obstructing access to affected areas. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the site to assess damage and announced financial assistance for victims, while Union Minister Jitendra Singh also evaluated the operations. The rescue operation is critical, as survivors’ chances diminish with time, and extensive destruction has been reported, including the flattening of community kitchens and residential structures. Abdullah’s presence provided reassurance to locals, who expressed hope for effective long-term rehabilitation. This incident highlights the Indian defense forces’ commitment to disaster response and emphasizes the importance of timely government intervention in crisis situations, showcasing the collective efforts to support affected families and restore normalcy effectively.