Cloudbursts trigger flash floods, disrupt Pahalgam-Bijbehara road

A sudden spell of intense rainfall triggered cloudbursts in south Kashmir on Saturday night, causing flash floods that battered Pahalgam and Shangus, damaging infrastructure and crops while forcing the evacuation of tourists from flooded hotels, officials said.

The cloudbursts triggered flash floods in the Awoora near Pahalgam and Shangus, reports said.

The overflowing waters inundated at least half a dozen hotels, prompting the rescue and relocation of tourists to safe places. Army, BSF and Police personnel immediately began rescue operations in the flash flood hit areas.

There was no report of any loss of life or injuries. The administration is closely monitoring the situation, officials added.

Several vehicles and two wheelers were buried under the boulders and debris that came flowing with the gushing waters.

The cloudbursts badly damaged the Pahalgam–Awoora–Bijbehara Road and also power and water supply.

The cloudburst at the upper reaches of Chatergul in Shangus, caused the Aaripath stream to swell. Floodwaters carrying boulders, mud and debris entered paddy fields, orchards and parts of nearby residential areas, damaging standing crops, reports said.

About an hour later, another cloudburst struck the Wildlife Sanctuary in Pahalgam area, leading to a sudden surge in the Nallah. The overflowing stream entered several huts and hotels, creating panic in the area.

The administration has advised residents and tourists to stay away from rivers and streams.