Jammu Kashmir Floods Continue

by in Asia

The flood situation in Jammu and Kashmir continues after 3 days of heavy rain fell in the region. Rescue teams are working to help move those in vulnerable areas to higher ground.

The death toll has doubled since yesterday (see our original report here) and local reports now say that as many as 12 people have been killed in floods or landslides since 02 September 2014.

River levels are now extremely high and are posing a considerable flood threat for many communities. The River Jhelum is flowing four feet above the danger mark in Srinagar. Over 50 mm of rain fell in 24 hours between 03 ad 04 September in Srinagar. Moderate to heavy rain is expected to continue for at least 48 hours.

Many of the state’s districts have been affected, including: Poonch, Anantnag, Ganderbal, Rajouri, Reasi, Baramulla, Pulwama, Kulgam and Shopian.

Over 100 people rescued by emergency team working in the area so far. Some reports say that as many as 30 villages completely inundated and over 120 buildings destroyed or damaged. Disaster Management and rescue teams operating in all districts of Jammu region.

Bus Swept Away by Floods in Rajauri district

A bus carrying at least 70 passengers – thought to be members of a wedding party – was swept away by floods on Thursday 04 September 2014. Police are carrying out searches for the passengers. The accident occurred in the area of Nowshehra, Rajauri district.

Border Security Force Soldier Killed

The death of a Border Security Force (BSF) soldier has been confirmed. The soldier – an Inspector General – died when an army bunker was destroyed by a landslide in Mandi Mandir, Poonch district. Other soldiers in the bunker managed to escape, although 2 other people in the area are feared dead. It is not clear whether the missing two are also from the BSF.

Flood Warnings for Pakistan

Many of the rivers in Jammu and Kashmir flow into Pakistan. Pakistan authorities have issued flood warnings for the next 3 days for areas near the River Chenab, in particular Marala, Khanki and Qadirabad.

River system in Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan. Image used under Creative Commons Licence. Image credit
River system in Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan. Image used under Creative Commons Licence. Image credit

Images of the floods in Jammu and Kashmir from social media sources: