The Impressive TimesJ&K : In a tragic natural calamity, more than 100 sheep and goats were killed after a lightning strike hit a shepherds’ camp in the upper reaches of Budhal sub-division in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred late yesterday amid intense thunderstorms and hailstorm activity in the region.
According to officials, the livestock belonged to nomadic families from Targain village, who had migrated to Marg Top as part of their traditional seasonal movement in search of greener grazing pastures. The unexpected lightning strike, accompanied by heavy thunder and hail, struck their temporary camp, killing the animals instantly and causing significant economic losses to the affected families.
Eyewitnesses said that the shepherds had taken shelter under makeshift tents when the lightning bolt struck the area. By the time the storm subsided, they were faced with the grim sight of lifeless sheep and goats scattered across the field.
A team from the Sheep and Animal Husbandry Department, Budhal, promptly reached the site to assess the damage. Officials conducted an on-the-spot inspection and began the process of preparing a detailed loss assessment report, which will be forwarded to the district administration for possible compensation and support to the affected families.
Speaking to local media, department officials confirmed the scale of the devastation. “This is a massive loss for the nomadic community, which relies heavily on their livestock for livelihood. We are compiling the details to ensure timely relief,” said a senior official from the department.
The incident has sparked concern among local residents and social organizations, who have urged the Jammu and Kashmir administration to provide immediate financial assistance to the families and introduce safety measures for migratory shepherds, especially during the monsoon season.
Lightning strikes are a recurring hazard in the hilly terrains of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during the summer and monsoon months. Nomadic communities, often residing in remote high-altitude regions with limited shelter and infrastructure, remain particularly vulnerable.
This latest tragedy highlights the urgent need for early warning systems, awareness programs, and emergency shelters for these communities. The administration is yet to announce formal relief measures, but local authorities have assured the affected families of support.
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