Through the Reader lens — Persistent heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir since July 19 has triggered widespread landslides and flooding, killing at least 22 people and prompting the government to identify 654 villages as highly vulnerable. Search-and-rescue operations are underway, schools have been closed, and major roads remain diverted as landslips continue to block key routes. Pilgrimages in the region have been suspended for a third consecutive day, disrupting a vital seasonal revenue stream for local businesses and stranding travelers. Weather forecasts suggest the wet spell may continue, keeping flood and landslide risks elevated across the Pir Panjal and lower Himalayan zones. District administrations are coordinating evacuations and relief distribution, though access to some remote villages remains cut off. Observers are watching whether additional fatalities occur and how quickly infrastructure — particularly roads and power lines — can be restored.