Rajouri Flash Floods: 1 Dead, vehicles swept away as heavy rains batter Jammu and Kashmir

Torrential rainfall triggered flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Sunday, leaving one person dead, sweeping away several vehicles, and forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate as rivers overflowed and inundated low-lying areas. 

The heavy downpour caused the Darhali, Khandli, Suktoh and Jamola rivers to swell beyond danger levels, flooding residential areas and causing widespread damage to infrastructure. The new bus stand in Rajouri suffered extensive destruction after the Darhali River breached a flood protection wall near Bela Colony, washing away or submerging dozens of parked vehicles. 

Authorities recovered the body of a woman who had gone missing during the flash floods. More than 48 families living near Abdullah Bridge were evacuated after floodwaters submerged their homes, while several localities near Tariq Bridge also witnessed severe flooding. 

Rescue and relief operations continued through the night, with police, disaster response teams and the local administration assisting stranded residents. The police control room has been activated to coordinate emergency response efforts. 

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he has been closely monitoring the situation and is in constant touch with local representatives. He assured that the administration's top priority is protecting lives and providing all necessary assistance to affected families. 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir until July 23 and urged residents to remain alert as authorities continue monitoring the flood situation.