Water level of rivers, streams crosses danger mark in Kashmir Valley

Incessant rainfall across the Kashmir Valley has triggered a flood scare, with water levels in major rivers and streams rising sharply and breaching danger marks in several areas on Wednesday.

Officials of the Jammu and Kashmir government said they are closely monitoring the evolving situation after continuous downpours since Tuesday caused significant water accumulation and overflow in many parts of the Valley.

The Jhelum River, along with various tributaries and streams, witnessed a notable rise in water levels on Wednesday morning. In South Kashmir, Vishow Nallah, one of Jhelum’s major tributaries, was reported overflowing, with the water level touching 11 feet.

At the Sangam gauge station in South Kashmir, the Jhelum river crossed the danger mark of 25 feet, recording a level of 26.94 feet. During the devastating 2014 floods, the water level at this location had reached 34.7 feet.

In Srinagar, officials noted that the water level in the Jhelum is not yet at an alarming stage, but localised flooding has already affected several low-lying areas across the Valley.

A senior official from the Meteorological Department confirmed that the region received significant rainfall, which contributed to the surge in river levels. “We expect the rains to subside by Wednesday evening, which should help stabilise water levels,” the official added.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast intermittent rain and thunderstorms across parts of Jammu and Kashmir between September 4 and 7, with moderate showers expected in some areas of the Jammu division.

Despite the rising water levels, government officials said the current situation remains under control, with levels still below the 2014 flood marks.

In a swift response, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday rescued several nomadic families along with around 350 sheep from Rambiara Nallah in Shopian district after a sudden surge in water levels.

To assess the situation and enhance inter-agency coordination, a joint review meeting on flood preparedness and contingency planning was held at the Police Control Room, Kashmir. The meeting aimed to evaluate readiness in light of the weather conditions and potential risks.

According to a police statement, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, shared a detailed overview of preparedness measures, including embankment protection, rescue and evacuation plans, and contingency arrangements along the Jhelum River and other major water bodies. The meeting also discussed alternate communication strategies in case of service disruptions.

Meanwhile, as per a government order, educational institutions will remain closed in the Valley on Thursday.