Ramban, April 21, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary visited the cloudburst-stricken areas of Ramban district yesterday, expressing profound sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread damage caused by landslides and flash floods. The disaster, triggered by a sudden cloudburst and torrential rains, claimed three lives, damaged over 200 homes, and severed connectivity along the vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44).
During his tour of the hardest-hit areas, including Seri Bagna, Choudhary met with affected families, offering condolences and assuring them of the government’s unwavering support. “This is a tragic loss for Ramban. The government is fully committed to providing immediate relief and long-term assistance to every affected family,” he said. He also called for calm, reassuring residents that authorities are working tirelessly to address the crisis.
The cloudburst, which struck in the early hours of Sunday, unleashed flash floods and landslides, wreaking havoc across Ramban. The NH-44, a lifeline for the region, was blocked by debris, mudslides, and shooting stones, stranding commuters and disrupting essential supplies. Choudhary issued urgent directives to the district administration and National Highways Authority to prioritize debris clearance and restore traffic movement swiftly, emphasizing round-the-clock operations.
Rescue efforts are in full swing, with teams from the NDRF, SDRF, local police, and district administration rescuing over 100 people despite persistent rainfall. The Indian Army has also mobilized resources, providing food, shelter, and medical aid to those stranded along the highway. The district administration reported that 200-250 homes have been damaged, with Seri Bagna among the worst-affected villages.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, expressing grief over the tragedy, stated on X, “The loss of lives and property in Ramban is heart-wrenching. We are closely monitoring rescue operations and will ensure comprehensive relief for all affected.” He is scheduled to review relief and restoration plans today. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also extended condolences, affirming that all possible aid is being provided.
Political leaders, including Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, urged swift action. Abdullah announced plans to seek central assistance for rehabilitation, while Mufti stressed the need for early warning systems to prevent future losses. The district administration, under Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, has suspended school operations and advised against travel on NH-44 until conditions improve.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh praised the administration’s rapid response, pledging continued support. Local residents, grappling with the loss of homes and livelihoods, described the devastation as unprecedented, with many calling for long-term infrastructure improvements to mitigate such disasters.
Choudhary’s visit highlights the government’s resolve to stand by Ramban’s residents in this hour of need. As relief operations continue and efforts to restore NH-44 connectivity intensify, the focus remains on delivering prompt aid and rebuilding the affected communities.