Cloudburst in Jiva Nullah triggers Beas flood alert

Following a cloudburst in the Jiva Nullah area of district Kullu, Deputy Commissioner Amarjit Singh, who also heads the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), issued a high-alert advisory to residents living along the banks of the Beas. The sudden deluge has led to a significant rise in the river’s water level, raising fears of erosion and potential natural disasters in downstream regions.

DC Singh specifically urged residents in Sujanpur and Nadaun subdivisions of Hamirpur district to exercise utmost caution. He warned that the recent cloudbursts across various valleys in Kullu have drastically increased the water flow into the Beas. Additionally, water may be released at any time from the Pandoh Dam, which could lead to a sudden surge in water levels across vulnerable areas.

The DC made a heartfelt appeal to people to avoid going near the riverbanks for any activity — including bathing, fishing, collecting wood, or grazing animals. “Any negligence could prove fatal,” he stressed, while asking parents to keep a close watch on children and prevent them from approaching rivers or drains.

Singh further advised that animals must also be kept away from the riverbanks and shifted to higher, safer grounds. He emphasised the importance of heeding official warnings issued by the administration and the Meteorological Department.

In case of emergencies, people have been asked to move promptly to designated safe zones. The administration has made available a toll-free helpline — 1077 — and a landline number — 01972-221277 — for round-the-clock support.

The DC concluded with a strong message: “Your alertness today can prevent a tragedy tomorrow. Cooperate with the administration to safeguard lives.”