An abandoned house collapsed at Shaheedi Chowk in Jammu on Sunday as heavy rains lashed the city and adjoining areas, triggering widespread waterlogging and disrupting traffic, officials said.
The house, owned by Rajni Salotra, had been vacated a few months ago after cracks developed in the old structure. It collapsed around 7.30 am, damaging household items. No casualties were reported as residents were indoors amid the heavy rain.
Residents said the incident could have turned fatal as the lane is densely populated and usually witnesses heavy pedestrian movement. They urged authorities to identify and secure old and structurally unsafe buildings across the old city before they collapse.
"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," Sanjay Kumar, a local resident said, expressing concern over the recurring collapse of old houses in the city during the monsoon every year.
Several areas, including Tallab Tillo, Bhagwati Nagar, Krishna Nagar and Canal Road, reported extensive waterlogging, with rainwater entering houses and shops. Residents complained that even moderate rainfall frequently leads to flooding and called for a comprehensive review of drainage systems in vulnerable areas.
Waterlogging disrupted traffic at several locations, including the Jammu-Poonch National Highway near Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu-RS Pura road near Kulliyan and Bajalta Road.
Traffic on the Jammu-Kishtwar National Highway was suspended after a rain-triggered mudslide blocked the road at Ragi Nallah. Restoration work was underway.
Flash floods were also reported from Thathri in Doda district, although no damage was reported, officials said.
Jammu recorded the highest rainfall in the Union Territory during the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Sunday, receiving 66 mm. Udhampur recorded 56 mm, Poonch 45 mm, Kokernag 42 mm and Qazigund 32.6 mm.
The Meteorological Centre forecast generally cloudy conditions on Sunday, with light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places.
From August 24 to 28, the weather is expected to remain generally hot and humid, with brief spells of rain or thundershowers at scattered places, mainly during the early morning and afternoon, a spokesperson said.
From August 29 to 31, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely at scattered to many places, with brief intense showers mainly in the Jammu division during the early morning and afternoon.
The weather office cautioned that intense localised showers could trigger flash floods, mudslides and landslides.
(With inputs from PTI)