RAJOURI — Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall have caused extensive damage to crops, roads and essential infrastructure across parts of the Thanamandi constituency of Rajouri district, with several areas facing the impact of a continuing wet spell.
The latest situation comes weeks after a devastating cloudburst in the Rajdhani area of Thanamandi subdivision triggered flash floods and landslides, causing extensive destruction across the region. Reports said the July 19 disaster claimed four lives and damaged houses, roads, agricultural land, vehicles and other infrastructure.
Fresh damage in hilly areas
The latest damage was particularly reported from the hilly areas of Thanamandi, where sudden surges in water through local nallahs have affected roads and agricultural areas.
The earlier flash floods also caused major damage to connectivity, with several stretches of roads washed away and infrastructure affected by the force of floodwaters. The Thannamandi-DKG-Bufliaz road, an important link between Rajouri and Poonch, was among the roads badly affected during the July flooding.
Agricultural land and crops have also suffered losses in several affected areas, adding to the difficulties faced by residents whose livelihoods are closely linked to farming.
The recurring flooding has raised concerns over the vulnerability of roads, culverts and other essential infrastructure in the mountainous constituency, particularly following the extensive damage caused during the earlier spell of extreme weather.
Schools closed as rivers swell
The latest rainfall has again pushed water levels up in parts of Rajouri. On Wednesday, a flood-like situation was reported after the Dharhali and Saktoh rivers witnessed a significant rise following incessant rainfall, prompting the district administration to close government and private schools as a precautionary measure.
Authorities have been monitoring the situation as continued rainfall has caused waterlogging and disruption in low-lying areas.
Infrastructure review, resident demands
Meanwhile, the district administration has been reviewing infrastructure and road connectivity in the Thanamandi subdivision. Earlier this month, officials reviewed eight PMGSY road projects in Darhal and Thanamandi, with six projects under execution and two awaiting forest clearance.
People in the affected areas have sought immediate assessment of losses and restoration of damaged roads and other infrastructure, besides compensation and assistance for affected farmers.
The repeated episodes of flash flooding and landslides have underscored the need for stronger drainage systems, protection of vulnerable road stretches and improved disaster preparedness in the hilly areas of Thanamandi.
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