Emergency Rescues Amid Stormy Deluge in Jammu and Kashmir

In a dramatic rescue operation, nine individuals, including laborer Madan Lal, were pulled to safety from the raging Tawi River in Jammu after heavy rains triggered a sudden water surge. The joint rescue effort involved police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Lal, trapped while extracting sand, was saved after two hours at the scene by SDRF personnel with ladders, officials reported.

Additionally, eight more individuals, some involved in traditional rituals, and several horses were successfully rescued from the fast-moving waters. Traffic disruptions occurred as mudslides blocked the Jammu-Srinagar national highway at key points, notably the Mehad area and T2 tunnel, leading to a temporary halt in vehicle movement.

The regional meteorological department noted Katra town experienced the heaviest rainfall, with 108.5 mm recorded. Other areas including Rajouri and Udhampur also faced significant downpours. Authorities warn of continued rain and possible severe weather in the near future.

(With inputs from agencies.)