Heavy and incessant rainfall has triggered a flood alert in Jammu and adjoining districts, disrupting normal life and causing extensive damage to infrastructure.
The Tawi river surged past danger levels on Tuesday, washing away a road near the Fourth Tawi Bridge. Authorities have appealed to residents to stay away from rivers and nallahs as precautionary measures are being taken.
Jammu Deputy Inspector General of Police Shiv Kumar Sharma said, “A flood alert has been sounded. The administration has appealed to the public to avoid going near rivers and nallahs. We are taking all measures to ensure the safety of the people.”
The Indian Army has launched rescue operations in the Gadigarh area to evacuate stranded residents. SP City South Jammu, Ajay Sharma, confirmed that coordinated operations were underway and urged people not to block access routes needed by rescue teams.
Railway services in the region have also been severely affected. At least 18 trains were cancelled due to soil erosion and flash floods near the Chakki river. Traffic between Jammu Tawi and Katra as well as Bari Brahman was also suspended, while four trains were short-terminated and short-originated.
In Doda district, flash floods and overflowing rivers have caused devastation. At least three people lost their lives after gushing streams swept away houses, prompting mass evacuations. Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh confirmed the casualties and said the Neeru River in Bhaderwah had crossed the danger mark, submerging several low-lying areas. Families have been shifted to safer locations, including shelters at the Doda Community Hall.
A cloudburst was also reported in the district, worsening the situation further. The rising Chenab river has put the Pul Doda bridge — a vital link on the Batote–Kishtwar highway — under severe threat.
Authorities have placed all departments on high alert. Road connectivity has been disrupted due to landslides and falling boulders, cutting off several villages. Vehicles fitted with loudspeakers are being used to warn residents against venturing near water bodies.