Flood Situation Eases in Kashmir Valley as Jhelum Levels Recede
Rains abate; rivers draw down; schools shut; officials maintain vigil and evacuate vulnerable sites.
The flood situation in Kashmir improved markedly on Friday, with water levels in the River Jhelum and its tributaries dropping below danger marks in most areas due to drier weather and negligible rainfall over the past 24 hours. Officials confirmed that levels at Sangam in Anantnag and Ram Munshibagh in Srinagar are now safe, while other sections of the Jhelum continue to recede under close monitoring. No new breaches occurred overnight, and tributaries are flowing normally. Inundated areas are gradually clearing, though some spots remain affected, with Wular Lake in Bandipora also subsiding.
Authorities have implemented preventive measures, including evacuations from vulnerable zones and shifting residents to safer locations. In Anantnag, soil erosion damaged structures along the Jhelum, prompting evacuations in areas like Naidkhun Harnag. Interdepartmental teams remain on high alert for any changes.
The Meteorological Department predicts mainly dry conditions in Jammu and Kashmir for the next 24 hours, with possible light rain in isolated spots. As a safety precaution, educational institutions stayed closed for the third day to protect students.
Also Read: Srinagar Police Evacuate 200 Families Amid Jhelum Flooding
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a meeting in Srinagar to review the post-flood scenario, ordering reinforcements at weak points, evacuations from flooded villages, and 24/7 control room monitoring. He prioritised quick restoration of power, water, and road connectivity in affected regions.
This episode, less severe than the 2014 floods, highlights Kashmir's flood risks from monsoons, climate factors, and deforestation. No major casualties were reported, thanks to timely interventions by disaster response teams. As waters recede, focus shifts to rehabilitation and infrastructure repairs, aiding recovery in the agriculturally vital valley ahead of autumn. Residents are urged to follow advisories near water bodies.
Also Read: Kashmir Flood Threat Forces Schools Shut for Second Straight Day
