Jammu & Kashmir: At least 42 people were killed and over 200 remain missing after sudden heavy rains triggered flash floods in Chashoti village of Kishtwar district on Thursday afternoon. The downpour, which began around 12:30 pm, brought water and debris cascading from the mountains, trapping hundreds of devotees.

Authorities confirmed that 65 people have been rescued so far, while search and rescue operations continue under challenging conditions.

Devotees Caught in Deadly Deluge

The tragedy struck as thousands of pilgrims were gathered in Chashoti village, the first stop of the Machail Mata Yatra, a major Hindu pilgrimage. The sudden floods swept away buses, tents, langars, and roadside shops set up for the yatra.

Officials reported that the affected site is about 90 km from Kishtwar town, situated in the Paddar valley, which lies at altitudes ranging from 1,818 m to 3,888 m. Glacial melt in the high mountains worsened the flooding intensity.

Pilgrimage Route and Timing

The Machail Mata Yatra is an annual pilgrimage that attracts thousands of devotees every August. This year’s yatra began on July 25 and is scheduled to continue until September 5.

The route stretches 210 km from Jammu to Kishtwar, followed by a 19.5 km road journey from Paddar to Chashoti, and then an 8.5 km trek to reach the temple.

Rescue Efforts and Warnings

Rescue teams, including the Indian Army, NDRF, and local administration, are on site conducting search operations. Authorities have warned that the risk of more landslides and flash floods remains high due to unstable slopes and glacial activity in the region.