Heavy rains push Jhelum over danger mark, tributaries rise sharply

Srinagar: The water level in the river Jhelum and its tributaries surged on Wednesday afternoon as incessant rainfall lashed most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting authorities to issue flood advisories and put emergency services on alert.

According to the 4 pm gauge reading issued by the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department, the Jhelum crossed the danger mark at Sangam in south Kashmir, flowing at 26.55 ft (danger mark 25 ft). At Pampore, the level was recorded at 5.76 m, well above the 5.0 m danger mark. In Srinagar, the river at Munshi Bagh touched 19.43 ft, above the alert mark of 18 ft but still below the 21 ft danger level. Further downstream, Asham in north Kashmir recorded 9.65 ft, below the 14 ft alarm mark, while the Wullar Lake level stood at 1576.54 m, slightly under the full reservoir level of 1578 m.

The situation in tributaries appeared more critical. The Vishow Nallah at Khudwani swelled to 11.10 m, far above its 8.5 m danger level. The Sindh Nallah at Doderhama flowed at 3.83 m, just under the 3.9 m danger mark, while the Lidder at Batkoot remained steady at 1.51 m, close to its threshold.

Officials said the rise in water levels is being closely monitored.

“While Jhelum has breached danger levels at key points, the situation remains under control. People are advised to remain cautious, especially those in low-lying and vulnerable areas,” an I&FC official said.

September rainfall often triggers flood concerns in the Valley. The memories of the 2014 deluge, when Jhelum crossed 27 ft at Sangam and inundated Srinagar, still haunt residents.

Since then, the government claims to have strengthened embankments and initiated flood-mitigation projects. Yet, every fresh spell of heavy rain revives public fears.

The Meteorological Department has forecast more rain over the next 24 hours, raising the possibility of further rise in water levels.

Emergency control rooms have been activated across Srinagar, Pulwama, Anantnag, Kulgam and Budgam districts.

Authorities have urged people not to venture near riverbanks and streams, avoid rumour-mongering, and follow only official advisories. Relief teams and machinery have been kept on standby in case the situation worsens.