Bandipora, Aug 3: More than 80 people were rescued after cloudbursts and flash floods triggered by incessant rainfall affected several parts of Bandipora district on Monday, prompting a large-scale rescue and evacuation operation by the police.
In a statement the police said, acting on the directions of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), police teams were rushed to the affected areas of Arin, Dardpora, Sumlar, Aragam and other vulnerable locations following reports of cloudbursts and rising water levels.
Officials said over 80 stranded persons were rescued from Neelupati Sirender and shifted to safer locations. In Tota Mode, two families were evacuated after their houses were damaged in flash floods, while three residential houses sustained damage in Sathri.
In Gori Hajin, Aragam, police personnel, assisted by JCB machines, evacuated several families trapped by floodwaters. Passengers stranded near the Tangwani-Garoora bridge were also rescued after a sudden rise in the water level.
Despite damage to houses and infrastructure in several areas, no casualties were reported due to the timely response of the police and other emergency agencies.
Police said personnel remain deployed in vulnerable areas to monitor the situation, assist affected residents and respond to emergencies. They also advised the public to avoid flood-prone areas and follow advisories issued by the district administration.
Residents appreciated the rescue efforts, commending the police for their prompt response during the natural calamity.
