Heavy rain and inclement weather throughout Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the cancellation of classes in all schools in the Kashmir Valley on Monday. This is a precaution following flash floods caused by a cloudburst in Ramban district that have already claimed three lives and caused extensive damage.
Photos coming out of Ramban indicate the level of destruction, with incessant rain and an unexpected cloudburst causing destruction in the area. Due to the relentless rains, the administration declared the closure of all schools in the Valley to protect students.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo said, "In view of the ongoing extreme weather and predictions, classwork at all schools in the Valley will be suspended on April 21."
This measure has been taken solely in the interest of student safety," she further stated.
As a reaction to the tragedy at Ramban, an extensive search and rescue operation is on. The authorities confirmed major damage to approximately 200 houses and reported that sections of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway were swept away, leaving several vehicles stranded.
State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) along with local volunteers and Jammu and Kashmir Police are carrying out rescue operations and relief works. The displaced families have been shifted to Government Middle School for temporary shelter and basic relief.
"Ramban is struggling to cope with this tragedy," said Jugal Kishore Chib, a resident of the area, echoing the general mood of gloom.
Deputy Commissioner Ramban Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary confirmed extensive damage to property and reiterated that the administration is working day and night to implement rescue operations.
He asked people to stay indoors and not venture into flood-hit or landslide-prone areas. "We request people to stay in safe locations and away from vulnerable points like nallahs," he said.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast an improvement in the weather from Monday, following widespread rain in lower parts and snowfall at higher levels.
Following the existing situation, the Deputy Commissioner also issued that all government and private schools, colleges, and technical institutes will be shut throughout the region on April 21.
