Srinagar: Continuous rainfall for the second straight day triggered flooding across several districts of south Kashmir on Wednesday, damaging crops, disrupting connectivity, and forcing large-scale evacuations.
Authorities in Kulgam, Anantnag, Pulwama, and Shopian shifted hundreds of residents, including nomadic families, from low-lying and flood-prone areas as rivers and streams swelled dangerously.
In Kulgam, the Veshaw River crossed the danger mark by afternoon, inundating areas like Qaimoh and forcing people to move to safer places. Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan said evacuations had been carried out in vulnerable zones including Guddder and Laisoo. As a precaution, the administration closed the Chambund Bridge, following earlier closures of the Pahloo Bridge and the Laisoo–Guddder road.
In Anantnag, heavy waterlogging hit towns and adjoining areas. Police and SDRF teams used boats to rescue residents from flood-hit localities. At least seven families were shifted in Kokernag, where rising waters also damaged small bridges.
Pulwama witnessed flooding in several orchards after the Romshi Nallah swelled, damaging crops in Goosu. The Pahoo–Kakpora road was submerged and closed for traffic. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Basharat Qayoom said the immediate priority was saving lives, while crop loss would be assessed later.
In Shopian, more than 1,000 nomadic residents were relocated for the second consecutive day. Control rooms have been activated across districts, with officials monitoring the situation and extending assistance to affected families.
