The recent cloudburst that struck Margi village in the Warwan valley of Kishtwar district has caused widespread destruction, damaging more than 190 structures and affecting nearly 600 kanals of agricultural and horticultural land. The natural calamity has also resulted in the loss of livestock and religious sites, plunging the remote community into crisis.
The cloudburst, which occurred at around 5 am on August 26, triggered flash floods that swept through the village, severely damaging infrastructure and homes.
According to a senior revenue official, 24 residential houses have been completely destroyed, 45 have sustained severe damage, and another 75 have been partially damaged. Additionally, 45 cattle sheds were washed away in the flash floods.
“Three religious structures were damaged, and 29 animals, including cows, sheep, and goats, perished,” the official said. “Around 600 kanals of agricultural and horticultural land have also been affected.”
Deputy Commissioner (DC), Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, visited the affected area and assured residents that comprehensive relief efforts are underway.
“Since August 26, the administration has been making continuous efforts to reach the affected village and extend support to the residents,” Sharma told reporters. “Despite the difficult terrain, our teams have managed to access the area.”
He praised the local police post for being the first responders and credited them with saving lives in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. “Thankfully, there has been no loss of human life. All damage assessments are being conducted by officials from the SDM office, civil administration, PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, PWD, Health, and Food Supplies departments. Veterinary teams are also on-site, and NGOs have joined the relief efforts,” he added.
The DC said that the Patwari Association had sent a truckload of relief materials to the area.
“We are committed to ensuring that every affected household receives assistance. Some homes have sunk nearly 100 feet, and many have suffered structural damage. A comprehensive assessment will be completed by this evening,” he said.
Addressing the issue of road connectivity, Sharma said heavy machinery including JCBs had been deployed to clear debris and restore access.
“We are coordinating with the Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag and L&T for additional support, as large-scale machinery is essential in this terrain. Once roads are cleared, the delivery of relief materials will be expedited.”
He further mentioned that assessments under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) are complete, and efforts will be made to rebuild damaged homes at the earliest.
“Alongside government aid, we will mobilise additional resources to support families in rebuilding their lives,” Sharma said.
