16 Dead, 9 Missing After Flash Floods and Landslides Hit Poonch, Rajouri

Search and rescue operations continued in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district following devastating flash floods and landslides that claimed lives and left several people missing, officials said.

At least 16 people were killed and nine remained missing after torrential rains triggered flash floods and landslides across the border districts of Poonch and Rajouri over Sunday and Monday. The disaster caused extensive damage to roads, houses and other public and private infrastructure.

In Poonch, flash floods in the Bufliaz area of Surankote left eight people dead and five missing. Joint teams of the police and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been conducting intensive search operations along swollen rivers and waterways. Search teams are combing both banks of the nallah between Bufliaz and Pradhan Ali, despite challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions. Police said the operation was being conducted in coordination with other agencies and would continue until all missing persons are traced.

Meanwhile, restoration efforts have been stepped up to reconnect areas affected by the floods and landslides. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has restored road connectivity at several locations in the twin districts after landslides disrupted vehicular movement. Under Project Sampark, BRO personnel and heavy machinery were deployed to clear debris from strategic roads and maintain the movement of security forces and essential supplies. Teams have reportedly been working around the clock despite difficult weather conditions to keep critical border routes operational.

Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and Inspector General of Police Bhim Sen Tuti also visited the flood-affected areas of Poonch to assess the situation and review restoration measures. They met families who lost loved ones, offered condolences and assured them of all possible assistance.

The senior officials reviewed the progress of infrastructure restoration and directed departments to expedite the restoration of essential services and damaged infrastructure. Authorities were also instructed to ensure timely relief and provide necessary support to affected families while prioritising the safety and well-being of residents.