New Delhi, April 21 -- Eight Indian Army columns have been kept on standby at key locations across Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district, as the Army launched a swift and coordinated response to the cloudburst and intense rain that disrupted life and blocked NH-44, officials said on Monday.

Acting swiftly in coordination with civil administration authorities, including the District Commissioner, SSP and Superintendent of Traffic, the Army initiated ground assessments and began immediate relief operations.

While no formal emergency requisition has been made yet, the district administration has assured that Army assistance will be requested if the situation escalates.

Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) from Banihal, Karachial, Digdaul, Maitra and...