Reasi, July 23 : Two young men lost their lives in a landslide that struck near the holy Shiv Gufa (Shiva Cave) in Badora area of Mahore in Reasi during the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday.
Officials confirmed that the victims were asleep in a makeshift tent close to the cave site when a sudden landslide sent debris tumbling down a nearby hillside, burying the tent under heavy rubble. Both men died on the spot due to the impact.
The deceased have been identified as 26-year-old Rashpal Singh, son of Soba Ram, a resident of Tuli Kalavan in Chasana tehsil of Reasi district, and 23-year-old Ravi Kumar, son of Purushottam Kumar, a resident of Chenani in Udhampur district. Rashpal was reportedly employed as a JCB operator. The duo had been camping at the site to assist with preparations for an upcoming religious function at the revered cave shrine, sources said.
After the incident was reported, a police team rushed to the scene, recovered the bodies, and began formal investigations.
Local authorities have cautioned visitors and pilgrims to remain vigilant amid unpredictable weather conditions in hilly regions, especially during the monsoon season. [KNT]
