33 Dead as Torrential Rains Batter J&K; Jhelum Swells, Landslide Disrupts Vaishno Devi Yatra

J&K Rains Wreak Havoc: 33 Dead, Vaishno Devi Yatra Hit by Landslide.

At least 33 people were killed and 23 injured after a massive landslide struck the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra track near Ardhkumari in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday amid relentless rain. Rescue teams continue search operations as more people are feared trapped.

Heavy rainfall across the Union Territory has triggered flash floods, landslides, and infrastructure collapse, with bridges washed away and power and telecom services disrupted. Over 3,500 residents have been evacuated so far. Jammu recorded 22 cm of rainfall in just six hours on Tuesday, the heaviest in years, prompting a flood alert for the Jhelum River in South Kashmir as water crossed the danger mark near Sangam.

The shrine route has been hit twice in two days: an earlier landslide on Tuesday killed nine and injured 21 pilgrims, leaving officials braced for a possible rise in casualties. Relief efforts are underway with the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local volunteers. Helicopters and transport aircraft have been placed on standby to deliver supplies and assist evacuations.

Schools across Jammu division remain closed until August 27, exams have been postponed, 22 trains cancelled and 27 short-terminated, while Leh airport operations are severely affected. Telecom blackouts have left millions without connectivity, with leaders warning of a deepening crisis.