Cloudburst near Amarnath shrine: 15 people dead, NDRF deployed

Cloudburst near Amarnath:

At least 15 people have been killed so far, while nearly 40 are feared missing after a cloudburst was reported near the holy Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir.

The cloudburst was reported at around 5.30 pm today in the lower reaches of Amarnath cave.

Rescue Operations have begun

Rescue operations are being carried out in the cloudburst-affected area at the lower Amarnath Cave site.

Kashmir IGP said that some langars and tents came under the cloudburst or flash floods at Holy Cave. “Injured [are] being airlifted for treatment. [The] situation [is] under control,” he added.

NDRF, SDRF and other associated agencies along with ITBP are stationed at the site to carry out rescue operations. Helicopters are also being used to rescue people.

Tweets from PM and Home Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to inform that he has taken stock of the situation.

“Spoke to J&K LG Manoj Sinha and took stock of the situation. Rescue and relief operations are underway. All possible assistance is being provided to the affected,” wrote the PM.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed central forces and Jammu and Kashmir administration to ensure swift operations to rescue people affected in the cloudburst.

Shah said in a Tweet in Hindi that he has spoken to J&K LG Manoj Sinha to take stock of the situation following the cloudburst that struck around 5:30 pm. “NDRF, CRPF, BSF and local administration are engaged in the rescue work. Saving people’s lives is our priority. I wish all the devotees well,” the minister said.

Emergency helpline numbers

Emergency helpline numbers are active in view of the cloudburst J&K NDRF: 011-23438252, 011-23438253

Kashmir Divisional Helpline: 0194-2496240

Shrine Board Helpline: 0194-2313149

(With inputs from agency)

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