Jammu & Kashmir News Heavy Rain Triggers Massive Landslide Near Kwar Power Project in Kishtwar; Vehicles Buried, Jammu–Kishtwar Highway Closed

Mushtaq Pulwama State chief

Kishtwar, July 6: Heavy and incessant rainfall wreaked havoc in the mountainous district of Kishtwar on Monday after a massive landslide struck near the 540 MW Kwar Hydroelectric Power Project, burying several vehicles under huge mounds of debris and disrupting normal movement in the area. Officials said the landslide occurred following continuous heavy rainfall, sending rocks, mud and loose earth cascading onto the road near the project site. Several vehicles parked or passing through the area were trapped beneath the debris, suffering extensive damage. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of any loss of life, though authorities are continuing to assess the situation. Teams from the district administration, project authorities and other concerned agencies rushed to the spot soon after the incident. Debris clearance operations were launched immediately with the help of heavy machinery to retrieve the trapped vehicles, clear the road and restore connectivity. Officials said the operation is expected to continue until the affected stretch is made safe for traffic.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the strategic Jammu–Kishtwar National Highway has remained closed at Prem Nagar in Doda since last night after heavy rainfall triggered multiple landslides and shooting stones along vulnerable stretches of the road. The closure has severely affected vehicular movement, leaving commuters stranded and disrupting the transportation of essential supplies. Authorities have advised people not to undertake unnecessary travel on hilly roads until weather conditions improve and the roads are declared safe. The administration has also issued a heavy rainfall alert for Kishtwar and adjoining districts, warning residents about the possibility of more landslides, flash floods and shooting stones in vulnerable areas.

Pilgrims, tourists and local residents have been urged to remain vigilant, strictly follow official advisories and cooperate with the district administration and emergency response teams. Officials said all concerned departments have been placed on alert and are closely monitoring the situation to ensure timely response to any further emergencies. “People should stay safe, avoid venturing into landslide-prone areas and cooperate with the authorities until normal conditions are restored,” officials appealed. The administration has assured the public that every effort is being made to clear the affected roads, restore connectivity at the earliest and ensure the safety of residents and travelers.