J&K landslide: Schools shut in Kashmir, IMD issues fresh warning

Due to worsening weather conditions, the Jammu and Kashmir government has suspended classes in all schools in Kashmir on Monday. Heavy rains, hailstorms, and snowfall in the higher areas since April 19 have thrown life out of gear across Kashmir and parts of Jammu. 

 

 

Two minor siblings were among three individuals who lost their lives in cloudburst-triggered flash floods at Bagna in Ramban district during the intervening night of April 19 and 20. Landslides between Nashri and Banihal along the Srinagar-Jammu national highway have blocked the highway for traffic, cutting Kashmir off from the rest of the country. 

 

 

In the last three years, the Centre has expedited work on the four-laning of the Jammu-Srinagar highway, which has vastly improved travel between Srinagar and Jammu. However, some stretches remain vulnerable to extreme weather conditions due to heavy rains. The highway is the lifeline of Kashmir for transporting essentials from outside. 

 

 

Education Minister Sakeena Itoo shared the decision to close schools on social media. “In light of the continuing severe weather conditions and forecasts, it has been decided that classwork in all schools of the Valley shall remain suspended for one day tomorrow (April 21). This decision has been taken as a precautionary step to ensure the safety and well-being of all students,” Itoo said.

 

 

Authorities are keeping a watch on the situation as more rain is expected. Apple farmers have asked the government for help due to damage to their orchards.

 

 

The Meteorological Department issued a fresh advisory regarding moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds in many parts of Jammu. People have been advised to stay indoors and avoid going near streams, nallahs, landslide-prone areas and weak structures.

 

 

Sunday marked the third consecutive day of heavy rain, and some places even experienced hailstorms that damaged orchards and crops in several regions. Travellers have also been warned not to travel unless necessary, as there are rising concerns about flash floods and landslides, especially in hilly and low-lying areas.

India