SRINAGAR: Heavy rainfall triggered landslides and flash floods at several places in Jammu and Kashmir’s Chenab Valley, leaving multiple vehicles buried under debris near the 540 MW Kwar Hydro Electric Project site in Kishtwar district and forcing the closure of the Kishtwar–Doda National Highway (NH-244).
Officials said a massive landslide occurred near the Kwar Power Project area following intense rainfall, bringing down a huge quantity of debris and rocks. Several parked vehicles were trapped under the landslide material and suffered extensive damage.
Soon after the incident, men and machinery were pressed into service to remove the debris and retrieve the vehicles. Officials said clearance operations were underway and the situation was being monitored.
The Kwar Hydro Electric Project, located on the Chenab River in Kishtwar district, is a 540 MW power project being developed as part of the region’s hydropower development programme.
Meanwhile, traffic movement on the Kishtwar–Doda highway was disrupted after a flash flood and mudslide hit the Prem Nagar stretch of NH-244. The landslide deposited heavy debris on the road, making the route unsafe for vehicular movement.
Authorities have launched restoration work to clear the highway and resume traffic at the earliest.
Commuters have been advised to avoid travelling on the affected stretch and follow traffic advisories issued by authorities until the road is declared safe.
The fresh incidents come amid a spell of wet weather across Jammu and Kashmir, with officials urging people, especially those living near vulnerable slopes, rivers and streams, to remain cautious during heavy rainfall.
