Residents relieved as water released from artificial lake at Parchhu bridge

Residents of Dharampur subdivision in Mandi district breathed a sigh of relief today as a significant volume of water was successfully released from the artificial lake formed at the Parchhu bridge following heavy rains earlier this week. The lake, created due to severe waterlogging triggered by illegal debris dumping and torrential downpour, had posed a serious threat to downstream villages.

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The situation escalated on Tuesday when the water level rose drastically, submerging a local temple, a cremation ground and a Jal Shakti Department pump house. Prompted by growing public concern, the district administration swung into action, directing the construction company working on a nearby road project to deploy sufficient machinery and manpower for immediate drainage efforts.

Thanks to swift intervention, the company managed to release a significant portion of the water today, easing the potential flood threat to surrounding villages. Former Zila Parishad member Bhupender Singh confirmed that the risk had now reduced considerably.

Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Mandi Madan Kumar yesterday visited the site to assess the damage and oversee the progress.

He instructed the construction company operating under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to clear all debris within seven days and ensure adequate drainage within 24 hours. “The safety of residents is our top priority,” Madan said, adding that protective walls would also be built at vulnerable points to prevent further damage.

The ADM also warned of strict accountability measures for any negligence and emphasised that all relevant departments are under orders to maintain round-the-clock vigilance. To ensure smooth coordination, senior officials, including Dharampur SDM Joginder Patiyal, Sarkaghat SDM Swati Dogra, Dharampur DSP Sanjeev Sood, MoRTH Engineer Tanmay and representatives from the construction company Gawar participated in a high-level review meeting.

The local administration has urged residents to remain cautious and cooperate with ongoing efforts. Authorities assured that all necessary steps are being taken to restore normalcy and ensure public safety amid the continuing monsoon season.