Massive sandstorm engulfs Jaisalmer's Golden Fort

JAISALMER: A powerful sandstorm and dust whirlwind, driven by a Western Disturbance, swept into the border district of Jaisalmer from across the Pakistan border late on Tuesday night and continued for a third day, creating a dramatic and terrifying spectacle as it passed directly over the world-famous Living Fort of Jaisalmer, popularly known as the Golden Fort.

Residents living inside the historic fort were gripped by fear as the massive storm, with wind speeds reaching nearly 80 kmph, engulfed the UNESCO-recognised heritage structure in a swirling cloud of dust. The sight of the towering sandstorm moving across the fort presented a rare combination of breathtaking beauty and the destructive force of nature.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had already issued a Red Alert for the district, warning of severe weather conditions. As predicted, the powerful storm system, accompanied by heavy rainfall, entered Jaisalmer from the international border adjoining Pakistan and once again caused disruption across several border areas.

Ramgarh faces third consecutive day of extreme weather

In the border town of Ramgarh and surrounding rural areas, torrential rain and strong winds lashed the region on Tuesday night. The adverse weather significantly affected daily life, making travel difficult and causing widespread inconvenience.

This marked the third consecutive day of severe weather in the region. A massive dust storm struck on Sunday, followed by strong winds and rain on Monday. Tuesday night brought yet another spell of violent weather, increasing concerns among residents.

Dark clouds blanketed the sky throughout the evening, accompanied by continuous lightning and thunder. Strong winds reportedly damaged temporary structures and broke tree branches in several locations. Heavy rainfall also led to waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Prolonged power crisis

One of the most serious impacts has been the disruption of electricity supply. Ramgarh town has remained without power for more than 24 hours after the storm severely damaged power infrastructure.

The prolonged blackout has disrupted drinking water supply systems and affected routine daily activities. Residents continue to face difficulties as repair teams work to restore damaged transmission lines and equipment.

Golden Fort swallowed by a wall of dust

As the powerful storm advanced from the border region towards Jaisalmer city late at night, it intensified dramatically. Giant dust whirlwinds rising from the Thar Desert surrounded the historic Golden Fort and rapidly engulfed large parts of the city.

Within minutes, thick clouds of dust covered the skyline, creating near-darkness and significantly reducing visibility.

The atmosphere resembled a massive desert storm scene, with swirling sand, roaring winds, flashes of lightning and thunder creating an eerie and unforgettable spectacle.

Witnesses described the sight of the storm passing over the Golden Fort as both frightening and mesmerising, highlighting the raw power and unpredictability of the desert climate.

Damage reported across the district

Authorities and local residents reported that several tin roofs were blown away and a large number of trees were uprooted during the storm. The Meteorological Department had advised people to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the severe weather conditions.

The latest storm once again demonstrated the extreme and unpredictable nature of weather in the Thar Desert region.

Thousands of power poles damaged in three days

The continuous storms and rainfall over the past three days have caused massive losses to Jodhpur Discom. According to preliminary estimates, the powerful storms that struck on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday damaged more than 6,000 electricity poles across various regions.

A large number of transformers, 132 KV power structures and electricity lines were also destroyed, leaving hundreds of villages and remote hamlets without electricity. Restoration work is continuing, but many rural areas remain in darkness due to the extensive damage to the power network.

Officials are assessing the full extent of the losses while emergency repair teams continue efforts to restore power and essential services across the affected areas.