A sudden and intense rainstorm in Indian-administered Kashmir has resulted in at least 46 fatalities and left more than 200 people missing. The disaster struck the town of Chasoti in Kishtwar district, a key stop on a popular pilgrimage route, prompting urgent rescue operations. This incident marks the second significant weather-related disaster in the region within a week.

The heavy rainfall, described as a "cloudburst," occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time. A cloudburst is defined as a sudden downpour of over 100 mm (4 inches) of rain within an hour, which can lead to flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas during the monsoon season. Dramatic footage shared on social media depicted torrents of water, mud, and debris cascading down the mountainside, transforming roads into raging rivers.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed the grim situation in a social media post, stating, "The news is grim and accurate. All possible resources are being mobilized from within and beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations." Rescue teams, including army and air force personnel, have been deployed to search for the missing individuals.

The floods have caused significant destruction, washing away a community kitchen and a security post along the pilgrimage route to the Machail Mata temple, a revered site for Hindu pilgrims. An official, who requested anonymity, reported that many pilgrims were gathered for lunch when the floodwaters swept through. "A large number of pilgrims had gathered for lunch and they were washed away," the official said.

Earlier this month, a similar disaster occurred in Uttarakhand, where floods and mudslides claimed at least four lives. The Indian Meteorological Department has warned of continued heavy rainfall in several regions of Kashmir, including Kishtwar, advising residents to avoid loose structures, electric poles, and old trees due to the risk of further mudslides and flash floods.

As rescue efforts continue, some of the rescued individuals have been taken to local hospitals for treatment. Abdullah has also canceled planned events to commemorate India's independence anniversary in light of the tragedy.