Death Toll in Poonch Flash Floods Rises to Eight, Includes Toddler and Three Minors
Poonch, July 19, KNT: The death toll in the devastating flash floods that struck Lower Murrah village in Surankote area of Poonch district has risen to eight, with the victims including a two-year-old child and three other minors, highlighting the scale of the tragedy triggered by torrential overnight rainfall.
The deceased have been identified as Noor Safia (59), wife of Mohammad Latief; Sajad Ahmad (16), son of Mohammad Latief; twin brothers Haqnawaz Ahmad (10) and Shahnawaz Ahmad (10), sons of Mohammad Latief; Khalda Kouser (25), wife of Yasar Iqbal; Sofian (2), son of Yasar Iqbal; Bano Bi (60), wife of Mohammad Hussain; and Mohammad Akram (7), son of Mohammad Liaqat.
The flash floods, triggered by incessant rainfall, swept through the village with little warning, causing extensive destruction to residential houses and other structures. Rescue teams, police personnel and civil administration officials have been engaged in search and relief operations since the disaster struck.
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The tragedy has left the entire Surankote region in mourning, with several families losing multiple members in a single calamity. Local residents described the incident as one of the worst natural disasters witnessed in the area in recent years.
Authorities are continuing rescue and assessment operations in the affected villages, while efforts are underway to provide relief and rehabilitation to the affected families. The administration has urged people living in vulnerable areas to remain alert and strictly follow weather advisories as heavy rainfall continues in parts of the Jammu region. [KNT]
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