Cloudburst triggers flash floods in Neelum, one dead, vehicles swept away

NEELUM VALLEY: Torrential rains and a cloudburst triggered devastating flash floods in Neelum Valley and Rajouri, causing widespread destruction, disrupting traffic, and claiming at least one life, officials said on Sunday.

According to details, a cloudburst in villages near Neelum caused rivers and seasonal streams to overflow, flooding homes and several shops.

The strong currents also swept away multiple vehicles and motorcycles near the Mengal canal, while livestock was carried away by the floodwaters.

The flooding severely affected traffic on the main Neelum Highway, with authorities working to restore connectivity. District administration officials, along with Neelum Police, launched relief and rescue operations to assist affected residents and assess the extent of the damage.

Meanwhile, heavy overnight rainfall in Rajouri district of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir triggered flash floods that inundated low-lying areas and disrupted normal life.

The floodwaters affected several localities, including the new bus stand in Rajouri, where numerous vehicles were swept away while others remained submerged. Rescue teams recovered the body of a missing woman, while officials confirmed that one person had lost their life in the flooding.

Authorities in both regions have urged residents living near rivers and streams to remain vigilant as more rainfall is expected, while rescue and relief operations continue in the affected areas.