Jammu city experienced significant disruption to normal life on Sunday morning as heavy rainfall led to widespread waterlogging across various areas. The downpour, which began early in the day, inundated streets, disrupted traffic, and affected both residential and commercial establishments. In a separate incident, an old, abandoned house in Shaheedi Chowk collapsed due to the incessant rain, though no casualties were reported.
The collapsed structure, previously owned by Rajni Salotra, gave way around 7:30 am. Salotra and her family had relocated to rented accommodation several months prior after noticing structural issues, including cracks, in the old building. While the house itself was unoccupied at the time of the collapse, household belongings stored within sustained damage. The incident occurred in a densely populated locality, raising concerns about potential casualties had the collapse happened later in the day when pedestrian and vehicular traffic is typically higher. Residents have called upon authorities to conduct an urgent assessment of old, abandoned, and structurally unsound buildings within the old city and implement preventive measures to avert future tragedies. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the municipal corporation is now reviewing protocols for such structures.
Several key areas of Jammu, including Tallab Tillo, Bhagwati Nagar, Krishna Nagar, and Canal Road, reported extensive water accumulation. Rainwater breached into homes and shops in these localities, causing distress to residents and business owners. Many expressed frustration over the recurring flooding, noting that even moderate rainfall often results in significant water accumulation. They are urging the government to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing drainage systems in flood-prone zones and to implement immediate solutions to prevent rainwater from entering properties. The widespread waterlogging significantly hampered traffic movement at multiple points throughout the city, leading to considerable inconvenience for commuters and residents alike.
Severe waterlogging was observed on critical transportation routes, including the Jammu-Poonch National Highway near Bhagwati Nagar, the Jammu-RS Pura road in the vicinity of Kulliyan, and Bajalta Road. Other affected areas experiencing water accumulation due to the intense rainfall included Rajinder Nagar, Muthi, Patta Bohri, Lakhdata Bazar, and Bantalab. In Rajinder Nagar and Patta Bohri, ongoing construction work by the Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED) and the temporary storage of construction materials in the surrounding areas were identified as contributing factors to the waterlogging. Meanwhile, traffic on the Jammu-Kishtwar National Highway was temporarily suspended following a mudslide triggered by the heavy rains at Ragi Nallah. Restoration efforts were underway to clear the debris and reopen the affected road stretch.
In the Doda district, reports of flash floods emerged from the Thathri area, although officials confirmed there were no reports of any damage. Jammu city recorded the highest rainfall within Jammu and Kashmir over the 24-hour period ending at 8:30 am on Sunday, registering 66 mm. Other areas that received significant rainfall include Udhampur with 56 mm, Poonch with 45 mm, Kokernag with 42 mm, and Qazigund with 32.6 mm. The meteorological department has forecast generally hot and humid weather from August 24 to 28, with isolated instances of brief rain or thundershowers expected, primarily during the early morning and afternoon hours. From August 29 to 31, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are anticipated at scattered to many locations, with the Jammu division potentially experiencing brief, intense showers during the early morning and afternoon periods. The weather office has issued a caution regarding the possibility of intense localized showers triggering flash floods, mudslides, and landslides.
In response to the escalating situation, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) mobilized its resources, deploying men and machinery, including Quick Response Teams, to address the waterlogging issues in the affected areas. An official from the JMC stated that teams responded promptly to public complaints, successfully clearing waterlogged spots within an hour and restoring normal conditions. The official added that ongoing nallah construction projects are expected to be completed in the coming months, which should provide a permanent resolution to the drainage problems. The Ramban district administration also issued an alert, advising residents, particularly those residing in higher altitudes and near rivers, streams, and other water bodies, to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel during the period of inclement weather.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.