Heavy rains, flash flood cause massive destruction in Doda's Thathri; houses, shops buried, highway closed

BANIHAL, July 7: Heavy rainfall accompanied by a flash flood triggered a massive landslide in the Thathri area of Doda district early Monday, burying several vehicles, residential houses, and shops under debris while causing widespread devastation and disruption.

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According to local residents, the cloudburst and flash flood struck the area with tremendous force, damaging at least 10 residential houses completely, while several other houses suffered partial damage. Around 10 shops were also buried under debris, and a number of vehicles remain trapped beneath the landslide.

Eyewitnesses said several vehicles were swept away by the flash flood and washed into the Chenab River. However, the exact number of vehicles lost and the overall extent of the damage have not yet been officially confirmed.

The landslide also forced the closure of the Doda–Batote–Kishtwar National Highway, disrupting traffic and affecting connectivity in the region.

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Officials said the district administration is closely monitoring the situation, while rescue and debris clearance operations are underway to restore normalcy. Authorities have advised commuters and local residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from landslide-prone areas, and strictly follow official advisories until the situation improves.

No official reports of casualties were immediately available, while assessment of the damage was continuing.