Torrential Rains Paralyse Kashmir, Schools Shut

Torrential rains have paralyzed Kashmir, leading to school closures and widespread flooding. The Jhelum River has crossed flood alert levels, prompting fears of a repeat of the 2014 disaster. Authorities have issued a high alert, with rescue teams and shelters ready to assist. Residents are advised to stay away from water bodies as the situation remains critical.

Key Points:

  • Heavy rainfall in Kashmir causes widespread flooding, leading to school closures and suspension of transport services.
  • The Jhelum River has crossed flood alert levels, raising fears of a repeat of the 2014 floods.
  • Authorities have issued a high alert, with rescue teams and shelters prepared to assist affected residents.

Torrential Rains Paralyse Kashmir, Schools Shut

Heavy and continuous rainfall has led to a flood-like situation across Kashmir, prompting authorities to close schools, colleges, and universities. Highways and train services have been suspended as overflowing rivers and tributaries submerge homes in Budgam, Kulgam, and Anantnag, raising concerns of a repeat of the devastating 2014 floods.

Cloudburst in Budgam, Overflowing Tributaries in South Kashmir

In Budgam, a cloudburst in Yousmarg caused the Doodh Ganga tributary to swell, flooding areas like Wathura Balpora and Batpora. Water entered numerous houses, leading to the rescue of approximately 80 residents. In south Kashmir, tributaries such as Veshaw Nallah, Rambir Nallah, and Lidder Nallah overflowed, inundating hundreds of homes.

The Jhelum River Exceeds Flood Alert Level

The Jhelum River, Kashmir’s main river, has exceeded the flood alert level at Sangam (Anantnag) and is approaching danger levels at other locations. Residents, remembering the 2014 floods, attribute the current situation to weak embankments, illegal mining, and inadequate flood management, despite funds allocated for safety programs.

Rainfall Data

Over the past 24 hours, significant rainfall was recorded in several areas: Kokernag (82.4 mm), Qazigund (82.0 mm), Awantipora (65.6 mm), Pahalgam (64.4 mm), Budgam (52.1 mm), and Srinagar (39.3 mm).

Official Response

Authorities have issued a high alert and closed all educational institutions. Control rooms have been established in every district, with SDRF, NDRF, JKP, Army, and local volunteers on standby. Government buildings are prepared as shelters.

Contingency Plans and Rescue Operations

Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg stated that contingency plans are in place to reinforce embankments. Budgam Deputy Commissioner Bilal Mohiuddin confirmed the rescue and relocation of all residents from Dangerpora in Wathura to safer zones. Rescue centers are operational, and teams are reinforcing vulnerable points with sandbags.

Advisory and Forecast

Residents are advised to stay away from water bodies and adhere to advisories. The IMD forecasts rainfall relief starting today, but the situation remains critical.