GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL
BY TAHIR MUSTAFA
CHENAB VALLEY PIRPUNJAL
AUGUST 17: A cloudburst is such a natural disaster whose intensity and destruction are hard to measure. When clouds suddenly burst over a confined mountainous region, within minutes rainfall equal to months pours down to the earth. Along with the sudden rush of water come mud, rocks, and trees which sweep away entire villages. Experts say that climate change and the increasing emission of greenhouse gases have disturbed weather patterns, which has led to a rise in such disasters. Reckless deforestation, unplanned road cutting, and construction of houses on mountain slopes have weakened the land, which can no longer withstand heavy rainfall. Cloudburst is considered one of the most dangerous disasters in the mountains because it is almost impossible to issue prior warning. Within a few moments, it wipes out human settlements and leaves behind scars that last for years. That is why scientists and environmentalists have been warning that if humankind does not change its approach toward nature, the frequency and intensity of cloudbursts and flash floods will further increase.
In August 2025, just a day before Independence Day, when the whole of India was busy preparing for the celebration of freedom, the situation changed drastically in a small village of district Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir, known as Chashoti. On the 15th of August, the entire nation was to celebrate Independence Day with joy and pride, but in Chashoti, clouds of grief had already started gathering. The day was calm with cool breezes and light drizzles, while people were moving towards Mata Machail for pilgrimage. Their hearts were also filled with the wish to return home and celebrate Independence Day with their families the next day. But no one knew that behind those very mountains, a terrifying storm was waiting to unfold, a doomsday-like moment of which no one had any idea. As time passed and the clock ticked towards half-past twelve in the afternoon, suddenly a massive cloudburst took place. In a blink of an eye, the entire village was engulfed by a destructive flood. The lamps of happiness went out instantly, and grief spread not only across Jammu and Kashmir but throughout the country. Government functions and even Independence Day cultural programs were suspended, as the incident shook everyone deeply. In this tragedy, nearly sixty-five precious lives were lost, and the peaceful village of Chashoti was turned into a land of mourning.
After the cloudburst, a furious stream of water rushed down upon the village. In a matter of minutes, several mud and brick houses were reduced to rubble, fields and crops were washed away, and people started running to save their lives. According to eyewitnesses, the flow of mud and boulders swept away everything that came in its way. Dozens of livestock were drowned, and hundreds of kanals of land were destroyed. The tragedy was not just the sorrow of one village but a wound for the entire district. No one could imagine that those who had set out with devotion and hope for pilgrimage would return lifeless. Some lost their parents, some their children, some their daughters, and some entire families were buried under debris. The cries of mourning echoed in every home. A few were fortunate enough to escape, but most had their dreams, wishes, and lives buried forever under the mountain’s wrath. Happiness turned into grief, and people were left to wonder that whatever happened was only by the will of the Almighty. This disaster also forced everyone to think how, in the name of development, humans have been playing with nature. By cutting forests and disturbing mountains, man has only weakened his own foundation, and nature, in return, reminds us of its supreme power.
Immediately after the tragedy, local villagers risked their own lives to save others trapped under debris. Police, army, and NDRF teams reached the spot and worked tirelessly for hours to rescue survivors. The injured were carried by helicopters and ambulances to hospitals. Temporary shelters were arranged for homeless families and food supplies were provided. The government quickly announced compensation and relief, but the wounds of the people are so deep that no aid can heal them quickly. The efforts of local youth and volunteers deserve immense respect, for they worked day and night to save lives. It was a moment that reminded us that in times of calamity, humanity stands above all. Governmental measures can help, but unless long-term planning is carried out, such rescue operations will always remain just a temporary relief.
In the days after the tragedy, both state and central leadership became active. The then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reached the site, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and local MLA Shagun Prahar also visited the affected village. Senior officers including the Divisional Commissioner and DIG Police reviewed the situation. But the question remains—what did we learn from this disaster? Is it enough that leaders visit the site and announce financial relief? The lives lost can never be compensated. The real need is to take concrete steps so that in the future, such natural disasters cause less harm. Strengthening emergency helicopters, rescue teams, ambulance services, and disaster response systems is now a necessity. The real question is whether this will be the last such incident, or whether more tragedies await us in the days to come.
This tragedy teaches us a hard lesson: natural disasters cannot be prevented, but their effects can certainly be reduced. With timely preparation, stronger systems, and effective mechanisms, precious lives can be saved. The foremost need is afforestation so that the soil can retain water and mountains remain strong. Another crucial step is to immediately stop unplanned construction in hilly areas. Local-level emergency warning systems must be installed so that people can be alerted in time of danger. Schools and colleges should train students in disaster management. We must realize that without protecting nature, human life cannot survive. If we do not start preserving our environment today, tomorrow not only our villages but entire regions may face the same fate as Chashoti. Humanity demands that we learn to live in harmony with nature and leave behind a safe environment for future generations.
In the end, I personally stand with all my brothers and sisters who lost their loved ones in this tragedy. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and for eternal peace to the departed souls. May the grieving families be granted patience and strength. Such moments remind us that in sorrow, we should not see Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or Christian, but only see humanity. This is the time to hold each other’s hands, to stand shoulder to shoulder, and to become a support for one another. If we embrace this spirit, then no tragedy can break us—instead, it can unite us even more strongly.
