Heavy Rains Disrupt Life in Jammu, Abandoned House Collapses in City

An abandoned house collapsed at Shaheedi Chowk in Jammu on Sunday as heavy rains lashed the city and surrounding areas, disrupting normal life and causing waterlogging in several parts, officials said. The house, belonging to Rajni Salotra, who had shifted to rented accommodation months ago after cracks developed in the old structure, collapsed around 7:30 am, damaging household items. No casualties were reported, as residents were indoors due to the downpour.

Locals expressed relief that the collapse did not result in injuries or deaths, given the density of the area. "Such properties, including those under custodial ownership, need to be properly surveyed and assessed. Houses requiring urgent repairs should be repaired or otherwise secured to prevent accidents, particularly during the monsoon season," said Sanjay Kumar, a local resident, echoing concerns about the recurring collapse of old houses in the city.

Widespread Waterlogging and Traffic Snarls

The rains caused extensive waterlogging in several areas, including Tallab Tillo, Bagwati Nagar/Bhagwati Nagar, Krishna Nagar, and Canal Road, with water entering homes and shops. Disgruntled residents complained that even moderate rainfall frequently leads to flooding in these areas, and they urged the government to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the drainage systems in vulnerable localities and take immediate remedial measures.

The waterlogging also disrupted vehicular movement, with severe problems reported on the Jammu-Poonch National Highway near Bhagwati Nagar, the Jammu-RS Pura road near Kulliyan, and Bajalta Road. Additionally, traffic on the Jammu-Kishtwar National Highway was suspended after a rain-triggered mudslide blocked the road at Ragi Nallah, with restoration work underway. Flash floods were also reported from the Thathri area of Doda district, though no damage was reported.

Rainfall Statistics and Weather Forecast

Jammu city recorded 66 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8:30 am on Sunday, the highest in the region. Other areas also saw substantial rainfall: Udhampur 56 mm, Poonch 45 mm, Kokernag 42 mm, and Qazigund 32.6 mm.

The local Meteorological Centre has forecast generally cloudy conditions with light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places on Sunday. From August 24 to 28, the weather is expected to be hot and humid with brief spells of rain, and from August 29 to 31, light to moderate rain is likely at scattered places, with intense showers possible in Jammu division. The weather office has cautioned that intense localised showers may trigger flash floods, mudslides, and landslides.