Rajouri, Aug. 20 -- The devastating flash flood that struck Rajouri district on July 19, causing widespread destruction and claiming four human lives, was triggered by a powerful cloudburst whose reported epicentre was in the Rajdhani Panchayat of Thanamandi subdivision.

The cloudburst flash flood occurred at multiple locations in the hilly Rajdhani area, triggering intense flash floods and landslides. According to local residents, the cloudburst was reported at around 14 different locations, unleashing a sudden and massive flow of water through local nallahs and causing extensive destruction.

The impact was felt across several parts of Rajouri district. The main bus stand was completely washed away, while numerous vehicles were swept a...