Kishtwar, Sep 1,: At least 190 residential houses were damaged in the devastating cloudburst that struck Warwan Valley of Kishtwar district on August 26, leaving scores of families homeless and triggering widespread concern over the slow pace of official relief.
Officials said the cloudburst, accompanied by heavy rains, unleashed flashfloods in several hamlets of the remote valley. Mud and debris swept into homes, damaging walls, roofs, and household property. While no loss of life was reported, villagers described the destruction as the worst in recent years.
Local residents alleged that despite the magnitude of the disaster, immediate relief and rehabilitation support have been inadequate. They said many families are still forced to live in makeshift shelters and are dependent on neighbours for food and daily needs.
“Entire houses have been rendered uninhabitable, yet help has come only in the form of preliminary assessments,” said one community elder, urging the administration to expedite compensation and provide safe shelters before winter sets in.
Authorities confirmed that a detailed survey of the damage is underway. Senior officials from the revenue and disaster management departments have been deputed to the affected areas to compile loss estimates and identify families eligible for immediate assistance.
The Warwan Valley, known for its difficult terrain and limited road connectivity, often remains vulnerable to flashfloods and cloudbursts during the monsoon season. Locals stressed that recurring disasters highlight the urgent need for stronger infrastructure and long-term mitigation plans. [KNT]
