At least 15 persons were killed and over 40 are reported missing when a cloudburst near the holy cave shrine of Amarnath in south Kashmir Himalayas triggered flash floods on Friday (July 8) evening that also damaged 25 tents and three community kitchens, police officials said. Three persons have been rescued.
The cloudburst struck around 5.30 pm amid heavy rainfall.
The gushing waters hit the base camp outside the shrine, damaging 25 tents and three community kitchens where the pilgrims are served food. Fifteen persons were killed in the incident even as police, army and NDRF personnel launched a rescue operation, the officials said.
An NDRF team was already there while two more teams were being rushed, they added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish over the incident.
“Anguished by the cloudburst near Shree Amarnath cave. Condolences to the bereaved families. Spoke to @manojsinha_ Ji and took stock of the situation. Rescue and relief operations are underway. All possible assistance is being provided to the affected.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed central forces and Jammu and Kashmir administration to ensure swift rescue operations.
 evening that also damaged 25 tents and three community kitchens, police officials said. Three persons have been rescued.){kind=link}