Srinagar, 14 Aug (KNS) :The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah Thursday expressed profound anguish and sorrow over the devastating cloudburst that struck the Chositi area near Machail Mata Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday reportedly claiming at least 33 lives, while over 220 individuals remain missing.

Dr. Farooq extended his deep sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones in the tragic event.

Describing the incident as a "monumental tragedy", he called on the administration to intensify rescue and relief operations and to ensure swift rehabilitation and support for the affected population.

"This is a moment of collective grief. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who have lost their lives or are missing.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelI salute the courage and dedication of the rescue teams working under such difficult circumstances," Dr. Abdullah said.

He emphasized the need for the government to reach out proactively to the victims and provide timely assistance, medical care, temporary shelter, and compensation. He also appealed to locals and volunteers to cooperate with authorities in ongoing rescue efforts by rescue teams, immediately dispatched to the disaster site for large-scale operations which are underway to search for survivors and evacuate those trapped.

Dr. Farooq Abdullah reiterated his party's full support for all humanitarian and relief initiatives aimed at mitigating the suffering of those affected by this calamity.(KNS)