Flood fear in south Kashmir: Mosque loudspeakers used in Bijbehara to alert residents

Bijbehara: Amid heavy rainfall across Kashmir, mosque loudspeakers were used in Bijbehara on Wednesday to urge residents living near the Jhelum River to evacuate to safer places.

In a video widely shared on social media, a man can be heard making an announcement from a mosque speaker, reading a directive from the Bijbehara tehsil office, appealing to people to move to designated safe zones and secure their belongings.

The Kashmir Valley has been witnessing incessant downpours since Tuesday, triggering flood-like situations in several areas. Officials said water levels in rivers and streams, particularly the Jhelum and its tributaries, have risen sharply, inundating low-lying localities. Parts of south Kashmir, including Anantnag and Kulgam districts, reported flash floods and waterlogging after overnight rains.

Authorities have placed emergency teams on alert, with rescue boats kept ready in vulnerable pockets. People living near river embankments and nallahs have been asked to remain cautious and follow advisories. While the administration has not yet declared a flood, precautionary evacuations are being carried out to minimise risks.