Jhelum Breaches Alert Marks, Thousands Evacuated as Flood Threat Looms Over J&K

Srinagar, Aug 27 (TKG): Incessant rains over the past two days have pushed Jammu and Kashmir to the brink of a flood crisis, with water levels in River Jhelum and several tributaries rising sharply and forcing large-scale evacuations across the Valley.

By Wednesday evening, the Irrigation and Flood Control Department reported alarming levels: Jhelum was flowing at 23.35 feet at Sangam (danger mark 25 ft), 21.07 feet at Ram Munshi Bagh, Srinagar (danger mark 21 ft), and 11.83 feet at Asham (danger mark 16.5 ft). The Srinagar stretch of the river crossing the danger level set off fresh concerns among residents still haunted by memories of the 2014 deluge.

Authorities swung into action with emergency meetings, rescue drills, and coordinated response measures. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, confirmed that “field teams are on high alert and contingency plans have been activated to tackle any eventuality.”

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a high-level review meeting with Deputy Commissioners from all ten districts, later briefing Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the situation. “The PM has assured all possible support. Relief and restoration will follow SDRF norms, but additional resources will be mobilised wherever necessary,” Omar Abdullah said.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also took stock of the ground situation, announcing that over 5,000 residents from low-lying areas have been shifted to safer locations. He directed immediate restoration of power, water, and communication services in the worst-hit areas, adding that the Army, SDRF, and NDRF are jointly conducting rescue and relief operations.

Residents, tourists, and boatmen have been strictly advised to stay away from rivers, lakes, and streams, while emergency helplines (0194-2502254, 0194-2950767, and 10170) have been made operational for distress calls.

With the Meteorological Department predicting more rainfall until September 1, the administration remains on high alert. Relief distribution, evacuation, and restoration works are in full swing, but uncertainty looms large.

For thousands across Jammu and Kashmir, the rising Jhelum has once again become a symbol of fear, testing the resilience of people and administration alike.

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