The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — In a heartbreaking incident late Monday night, tragedy struck in the Khonmoh area of central Kashmir's Srinagar district as a JCB driver lost his life after being buried under a landslide. The victim has been identified as Mushtaq Ahmad.

According to reports received here, the incident occurred between the TCI and Khyber factory in Khonmoh, where the JCB, along with its operator, was engulfed by a sudden landslide.

Rescue operations commenced promptly following the catastrophe. Despite strenuous efforts, it took considerable time to retrieve the body of Mushtaq Ahmad from beneath the debris.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the matter, with the police taking cognizance of the incident.

SRINAGAR — In a commendable joint effort, Kupwara Police, along with local residents, successfully rescued two men trapped under a landslide in the North Kashmir district on Wednesday.

According to an official statement provided to a local news agency, Mohammad Moosa and Sajad Paswal found themselves stuck under a landslide in Taariyan Doban area of Kupwara.

Upon learning of the incident, Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and locals swiftly mobilized to the scene. Their timely intervention ensured the safe rescue of the two men.

The official emphasized that both individuals, Mohammad Moosa and Sajad Paswal, are alive, and there is no need for panic.

RAMBAN — In a double blow to the region, Ramban district faced a series of challenges today. Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a vital lifeline connecting various regions, was paralyzed due to a landslide triggered by heavy rains. Simultaneously, authorities in Ramban district were compelled to order the closure of schools up to Class 10th due to the looming threat of flash floods.

The blockage on National Highway-44 occurred near Ramban's Cafeteria Morh, leaving travellers stranded and transportation disrupted. The intensity of the slides, caused by relentless downpours, required immediate intervention from rescue teams and heavy machinery to clear the debris and restore the passage.

In a related development, the Deputy Commissioner of Ramban announced the closure of all schools up to the secondary level (Class 10th) in response to the heavy rains and the looming spectre of flash floods. The safety of students and staff was paramount, and the decision was made to ensure their well-being. Teachers, however, were instructed to report for duty despite the closure.

The combination of a blocked highway and the closure of educational institutions due to adverse weather conditions has cast a shadow over Ramban district, leaving residents grappling with travel disruptions and concerns for their safety.

JAMMU — The Mughal Road, connecting Kashmir valley's Shopian district with the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, was partially reopened for vehicular traffic after it was blocked for six days due to a landslide here, officials said.

"Debris from the landslides has been cleared partially and vehicular traffic has been restored at the affected place," the officials said.

On May 31, heavy rains triggered a major landslide on Mughal Road near Ratta Chamb bridge, blocking traffic movement in the region.

SRINAGAR — A house was damaged due to a landslide in Chandgam Tahab area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday.

An official, quoted by the news agency KNO, said that incessant rains triggered a landslide in Chandgam area, resulting in damage to a residential house. He said there was no report of any injury in the incident.

Tehsildar Pulwama, Mohammad Iqbal confirmed that a residential house suffered damage in Chandgam village.

He added that teams have reached the spot to evacuate the family to a safer place and take steps for the safety of other people living close to the spot.