The Chenab river, swollen after incessant monsoon rains, in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, Tuesday, July 21, 2026. Continuous rains over the past 48 hours have led to a sharp rise in the river’s water level, leading to controlled release of water from downstream reservoirs including the Baglihar and Salal dams. | Photo Credit: PTI
Jammu and Kashmir experienced wet weather for the third day on Tuesday (July 21, 2025), causing flash floods and landslides, killing at least 22 civilians and cutting off power supply in Poonch and Rajouri districts.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting two more days of rain, the administration has intensified preparations for any eventuality. The J&K administration has decided to keep all educational institutions closed till July 26th. Most pilgrimages, including the Amarnath Yatra, also remain suspended.
Officials said around 230 people were rescued and evacuated to Rajouri. There are currently about 450 people in care centers. Of the 435 damaged roads in Rajouri and Poonch, 356 have already been restored, they added.
Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, who visited the worst-affected districts of Rajouri and Pooch, said, “The situation is being closely monitored at the highest level – from the Union House to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister. A review of the situation is being provided hourly.”
Regarding the power outage in parts of Poonch and Rajouri, Mr. Kumar said, “The rains have washed away the power towers. Efforts are on to restore power supply in Poonch and Rajouri. Once power is restored, water supply will also resume.”
He said the administration had set up control rooms following new rain forecasts. “We advise people to follow the instructions and if any unforeseen circumstances arise, inform the control rooms. People should avoid low-lying and slippery areas,” Mr. Kumar said.
At least 22 people are reported dead and many more missing after floods hit parts of Rajouri and Poonch. Operations to locate the missing civilians continued Tuesday (July 21), officials said.
“Many families have lost their members, several people have gone missing and people have suffered heavy losses in their homes, farmlands and livelihoods. The focus now should be on finding the missing people and ensuring that immediate assistance reaches every affected household without delay,” said Mian Altaf, National Conference leader and Member of Parliament.
He said the destruction caused by Punch was “deeply troubling”. “I call on the government to step up rescue and search efforts and ensure assistance and rehabilitation to affected families, as well as immediate restoration of damaged roads, water supply systems and energy infrastructure,” Mr. Altaf said.
In Kashmir, Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg reviewed flood protection and mitigation measures. He also visited the Mata Kulwagishori Temple at Bungam and the Mata Katyani Temple at Kakrana to review arrangements for smooth and successful conduct of the upcoming annual Maha Yagya.
“Decisions on the Amarnath Yatra will continue to be taken strictly as per IMD weather forecasts,” Mr. Garg said. Meanwhile, flash floods hit civilian areas of south and central Kashmir on Tuesday.
Published – Jul 22, 2026 05:30 EST.