At least 11 people were killed, 5 injured, and 8 remain missing after torrential rains triggered flash floods and landslides across the Pir Panjal districts of Rajouri and Poonch on July 19, 2026.
Rescue teams reported widespread devastation, with over 100 houses and two dozen schools destroyed, hundreds of vehicles swept away, and power supply disrupted in Poonch and parts of Rajouri.
Surankote tehsil in Poonch was the worst hit, particularly Lower Murrah village, where an entire family was buried under debris. Five bodies, including that of a two-year-old child, were recovered, while three remain missing.
Additional fatalities included a 25-year-old woman, Manira Begum, and an 18-year-old girl, Iram, whose bodies were retrieved from Surankote. Several injured survivors were admitted to district hospitals.
Authorities suspended the Amarnath Yatra, Vaishno Devi, and Shiv Khori pilgrimages due to safety concerns. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated to safer locations.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cut short his Delhi visit to oversee relief operations, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha directed immediate relief distribution and placed all departments on high alert. Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured full central assistance.
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued heavy rainfall until July 21, warning of further flash floods and landslides. Residents have been advised to avoid streams, nallahs, and landslide-prone areas.
