Key Points

"Nature is testing us...Over the past few days, we have been facing natural disasters, landslides, cloudbursts, and many other calamities. Our sympathies are with the affected people," PM Modi said from the ramparts of the Red Fort.

He highlighted the collaborative efforts of state and central governments in tackling the crises, stating, "State governments and the central government are working together with full strength on rescue operations, relief efforts, and rehabilitation work."

The death toll from the massive cloudburst that triggered a flash flood in the Chesoti area of Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, has risen to 45, with more than 100 people injured, officials said on Friday.

The catastrophic cloudburst struck the remote and rugged terrain of Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir causing devastating flash floods. The disaster, occurring along the bustling Machail Mata Yatra route, swept through the village with ferocious force, leaving a trail of destruction.

In view of the weather conditions and the disaster, Kishtwar Police has set up control rooms and help desks across the district to assist citizens and pilgrims, particularly in remote areas.

Meanwhile, in Himachal Pradesh, the continuous heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours has caused fresh damage across several parts of Himachal Pradesh, with no signs of immediate relief. While no major casualties were reported overnight, infrastructure losses remain significant, particularly to the road network, Education Minister Rohit Thakur said on Thursday.

'The damage is occurring at multiple locations due to ongoing rain. Even last night, significant losses occurred, though they were mostly related to infrastructure," Thakur told reporters. He confirmed that cloudburst incidents have been reported from the Rampur assembly constituency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the tricolor at Red Fort on the 79th Independence Day.

PM Modi also took the opportunity to commend the armed forces, saying, "Today, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I have the opportunity to salute the brave soldiers of Operation Sindoor for their relentless service."

On his arrival he was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Sanjay Seth, and the Chiefs of the three services.

The Prime Minister was also received by the ceremonial guard of honour by the National Flag Guard, the Indian Air Force, Army, Navy, and Delhi Police, totaling upto 128 people. Wing Commander Arun Nagar led the interservices guard of honour.

- ANI