On April 20, 2025, Ramban district in Jammu & Kashmir was caught off guard by a powerful cloudburst that triggered severe flash floods and landslides. The intense rainfall caused havoc in the area, with the worst damage reported in Seri village, where three lives were tragically lost. In Daadam village, around 45 houses were damaged, but thankfully no fatalities were recorded. The downpour also led to the closure of the vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, causing major disruption and stranding travelers.
Community Resilience Amidst Crisis
Despite the overwhelming devastation, the community in Ramban has shown incredible resilience. Local residents, alongside rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the police, have been working non-stop to assist those in need. Efforts have been focused on rescuing people who were stranded by the floods and providing temporary shelter to those displaced. In Daadam, many residents were relocated to safer areas, including schools and police stations. The spirit of unity and determination in this time of crisis has been truly inspiring.
Educational Institutions Closed for Safety
In response to the ongoing challenges and to ensure the safety of the students, all schools, colleges, and technical institutions in Ramban district have been shut down on Monday, April 21, 2025. This precautionary measure was taken to protect students and staff from the dangers posed by the ongoing weather conditions and to allow the community to focus on safety and recovery.
Ongoing Restoration and Recovery Efforts
Authorities are working tirelessly to restore essential services and clear the blocked roads. The top priority right now is to reopen the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which has been severely impacted by landslides. Efforts to restore this crucial route are expected to take up to 48 hours, depending on the weather. While some areas have started seeing partial restoration of services, remote regions are still facing challenges due to the damage caused to infrastructure. The dedication and tireless efforts of the rescue teams and local authorities remain a beacon of hope during this difficult time.
In Conclusion: The flash floods in Ramban have brought immense hardship to the district, but the resilience and strength of the community are shining through. As recovery efforts continue, the determination of the people of Ramban, along with the relentless support from rescue teams, will be key to overcoming the challenges posed by this natural disaster. Together, they will rebuild and emerge stronger.
