Ghaggar in spate after heavy rain in Fatehabad; farmers allege no help

Continuous heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh has led to a flood alert in parts of Haryana, with particular concern over the rising water levels of the Ghaggar river. Though the weather department has forecast reduced rainfall between September 1 and 4, the authorities remain on high alert due to the risk of further flooding.

In the Jakhal area of Fatehabad district, the Ghaggar river’s discharge surged dramatically from 14,630 cusecs at Guhla Cheeka to around 30,000 cusecs. However, at Chandpura Syphon, water flow dropped from 12,500 cusecs to 4,350 cusecs by Saturday evening. Similarly, at Khanauri Head, the level decreased from 8,300 to 7,000 cusecs. The Rangoi drain remained steady at 275 cusecs.

Despite these slight drops, officials fear the situation could worsen if rainfall resumes. Low-lying areas have already begun to experience flooding in fields, triggering protests from farmers in Udaipur, Kasimpur and Talwara villages, who say they have received no assistance from the government.

“Farmers are using their own resources to bring in soil trolleys and reinforce riverbanks, but there has been no support from the administration,” said Labh Singh Udaipur, a local farmer leader.

Naib Tehsildar Rasvinder Duhan met the affected farmers and assured them of all possible help. Meanwhile, officials from the Tohana Irrigation Department said that the river’s flow is being closely monitored and that the administration is fully prepared to handle any flood-like situation. Residents have been advised to stay away from rivers and drains due to safety concerns.

Tohana SDM Akash Sharma visited key flood-prone locations, including the Ghaggar river and Chandpura Syphon, accompanied by officials from the irrigation, revenue and disaster management departments. Sharma instructed engineers to remain on high alert, repair vulnerable embankments immediately and keep all necessary equipment ready.

There was some relief in the Ratia area, where water levels in both the Ghaggar river and the Sirhind Drain are gradually receding. The Sirhind Drain’s discharge has dropped from 5,502 cusecs to 3,750 cusecs. Villagers reported panic over the last few days due to the rising water levels, but said the situation now appears to be stabilising.

However, fresh concerns have emerged as water levels begin to rise again in the Guhla Cheeka area, prompting continued vigilance by local authorities.