Ramban, April 20: A devastating landslide triggered by intense overnight rainfall struck the Dharamkund area of Ramban district around 3 AM, claiming the lives of at least three people, leaving one missing, and damaging multiple structures and vehicles.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief and assured support in the wake of the tragedy:
“Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of precious lives due to the flash floods triggered by incessant rain in Ramban. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief. District administration, SDRF, rescue teams are on the job to ensure swift rescue and relief. All possible assistance is being extended to the affected families.”
According to officials, nearly 100 mm of rain fell within seven hours, causing flash floods and several landslides across Dharamkund, Ramsu, and parts of Ramban town. One of the worst-hit locations was a multi-storey hotel, where two floors were buried under debris while about 15 people managed to survive on the top floor.
“When I came out, I saw two floors of the hotel inside the debris. We managed to rescue all 15 people. My new car was completely damaged. Around 8–10 cars are stuck under the debris,” said Sunil Kumar, a local staying in the hotel.
Shortly after the incident, the Indian Army, SDRF, and localn authorities launched rescue operations. Nearly 90–100 people were evacuated, with continued efforts underway to locate the missing person.
Amid the rising panic and damage, Office of Chief Minister J&K expressed deep sorrow and assured action:
“Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban, which have caused considerable damage to life and property. My thoughts are with the affected families in this difficult hour. We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts wherever needed. Later today, I will be reviewing restoration, relief, and repair plans. For now, the focus remains on managing the situation on the ground. Citizens are advised to follow travel advisories and avoid non-essential movement in vulnerable areas,” Office of Chief Minster posted on X.
Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban, which have caused considerable damage to life and property. My thoughts are with the affected families in this difficult hour. We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts…
— Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) April 20, 2025
Meanwhile, several houses and vehicles have been damaged or buried, with visuals showing crushed cars, collapsed structures, and blocked roads.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, along with MLA Banihal Sajjad Shaheen, also visited the affected areas to assess the damage firsthand.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and ensuring that every affected family receives immediate support. Relief and medical teams are on the ground. We stand with the people of Ramban,” Choudhary told reporters.
The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway has been severely affected, particularly at Kelamor, Battery Chashma, and Seri stretches, where traffic has been suspended. Traffic police and district officials have advised travelers to avoid the route entirely.
Adding to the reassurance, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, in constant contact with Ramban authorities, tweeted:
“There was a heavy hailstorm, multiple landslides and fast winds throughout the night in the Ramban region, including the areas surrounding the Ramban town. The National Highway stands blocked and unfortunately there have been 3 casualties and loss of property for a couple of families. I am in constant touch with Deputy Commissioner Mr Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary. The district administration deserves appreciation for timely and prompt action, which helped save several precious lives. Every kind of relief, both financial and otherwise, is being provided. The DC has been conveyed that, if need be, whatever more is required, can be provided from MP’s personal resources as well. The request is not to panic. We shall all,together, overcome this natural calamity.”
#Ramban#JammuAndKashmir: There was a heavy hailstorm, multiple landslides and fast winds throughout the night in the Ramban region, including the areas surrounding the Ramban town. The National Highway stands blocked and unfortunately there have been 3 casualties and loss of…
As heavy rainfall continues, complicating relief efforts, the administration has activated emergency protocols and medical support in nearby areas. DC Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary is overseeing the coordination of rescue and aid operations.
In view of inclement weather and heavy rain causing flash floods, all Government and Private Schools, Colleges, and Technical Education Institutions of district Ramban shall remain closed on April 21, 2025.
“Stay indoors, stay safe!” — DC Ramban on X
In view of inclement weather and heavy rain causing flash floods, all Govt and Private Schools, Colleges & Technical Education Institutions of district Ramban shall remain closed on 21.04.2025. Stay indoors, stay safe! @diprjk@BaseerUlHaqIAS@RambanPolice
— Deputy Commissioner (DEO), Ramban (@dcramban) April 20, 2025
