Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday expressed profound grief over the loss of seven lives in a rain-triggered landslide in Poonch district and directed the administration to ensure swift relief, rehabilitation and comprehensive assistance to the bereaved families.

The landslide, caused by incessant heavy rainfall, struck the Domail Dhok Nandichool area of Loran, burying seven persons, including women and children, under debris, officials said.

In a post on social media platform X, the Lt Governor said, "A tragic landslide caused by heavy rainfall in Poonch has resulted in the loss of seven precious lives.I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families during this difficult time."

Sinha also prayed for strength to the families to bear this irreparable loss, while directing senior officials to personally monitor the situation and expedite rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations in the affected area.

Authorities have launched relief operations, and damage assessment is underway to ensure that all necessary support reaches the affected families without any delay, officials added.