LoP overseeing rescue operation

Jammu, Aug 14: Leader of Opposition (LoP) in J&K Legislative Assembly and BJP MLA from Padder-Nagseni Sunil Sharma, joined by his party colleague and MLA Kishtwar Shagun Parihar Thursday remained stationed on ground zero following the Chisoti disaster to oversee rescue operations.

Earlier, Union Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh, who represents the district in the Parliament, too, remained in touch with the administration.

He said, “I got a call from J&K LoP and local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma about a massive cloudburst in the area which he represents. It also happens to be the route of the popular Machail Mata Yatra, which takes place there. The cloudburst is of massive scale, which could possibly lead to substantial casualties.”

“We immediately got in touch with the district authorities, who were also at a loss, as it had taken everyone by surprise. They have already started moving towards the site of the incident. Very soon we will know more details. Every possible assistance will be provided. The administration will make arrangements for heli-rescue for medical treatment,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Army swiftly mobilised its troops in the aftermath of a devastating cloud burst at Chisoti village of Kishtwar district for rescue and relief operations in perfect synergy with the Police, SDRF, and other civil agencies.

As per its official statistics, presently over five columns of 60 personnel each and medical detachments of White Knight (16) Corps were on the ground engaged in saving lives and providing reprieve to those in need.

“In the aftermath of a cloud burst at Chisoti village, Kishtwar, troops of White Knight Corps swiftly mobilised for rescue and relief ops. Efforts are centred on safeguarding lives and aiding survivors. Search for the missing continues. Relief stores, medical teams, and rescue gear rushed to the site,” White Knight Corps posted with a tagline, “We serve, we protect.”

Giving further update on relief operations, it posted, “Relief operations continue in full swing. Over 5 columns of 60 personnel each and medical detachments of White Knight Corps are on the ground, working tirelessly in consonance with JKP, SDRF, and other civilian agencies to save lives and assist those in need. Search for missing underway with medical aid and support reaching affected families. Relief operations continue.”

Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat too had reached the spot to supervise relief and rescue operations.

Villagers, sharing spine-chilling details, at the site described the situation as appalling.

According to them, pilgrims had taken shelter in the tents pitched for the community kitchen and adjoining areas to escape rain.

“As flash floods hit the Langar site. Outside the community kitchen, the people jumped onto vehicles to save themselves. However, those vehicles also perished in the flash flood,” they said.