A devastating cloudburst in Jammu & Kashmir’s Kishtwar district has killed at least 45 people, including two CISF jawans, most of them pilgrims heading to the Machail Mata shrine. The disaster struck Chasoti, the last motorable point on the 9,500-ft-high yatra route, just as hundreds had gathered. Over 160 people were rescued, but rescue teams face torrential rains, debris, and no mobile connectivity. PM Modi expressed deep sorrow in his Independence Day speech, as officials brace for more rain and possible delays in rescue operations. 

Flash floods triggered by torrential rains wreaked havoc in Uttarkashi’s Dharali, washing away homes, hotels, and markets in minutes. At least 4 people are confirmed dead, and over 60-70 are missing or trapped. NDRF, SDRF teams are on-site as PM Modi and top leaders assure support to CM Dhami.