Heavy rain swells Chenab River as all gates of Salal Dam opened in Reasi
Reasi, July 22
Continuous rainfall in Reasi and upper catchment areas has triggered a surge in water inflow into the Salal reservoir, prompting authorities to open all gates of the dam to regulate the rising water level.
The increased inflow and release of water from the dam have caused the Chenab River to swell, with strong currents and elevated water levels being witnessed downstream.
Heavy rainfall has been lashing the Reasi region for the past several hours, leading to a significant rise in water inflow into the Chenab River and Salal Dam reservoir. Authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions and the river's water level.
People, particularly those living in low-lying areas and along the banks of the Chenab, have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid venturing close to the river.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall lashed Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district from early Tuesday morning, prompting the district administration and Rajouri Police to issue advisories urging residents to remain alert amid fears of rising river water levels, flash floods, landslides and waterlogging.
The district administration advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during the ongoing spell of heavy rain and stay away from rivers, streams and flood-prone areas. Residents were also urged not to attempt crossing flooded roads or bridges and to follow weather updates and instructions issued by the administration.
People have been asked to remain indoors unless travel is essential and cooperate with the administration. In case of an emergency, residents have been advised to immediately contact the local administration or emergency services.
Rajouri Police also issued an urgent advisory, warning that continuous heavy rainfall could lead to a rapid rise in the water level of rivers in the district.
"With heavy rainfall going on in areas of Rajouri, there is apprehension that the water level in rivers will increase rapidly," the advisory said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
But why wasn't there better early warning? People in low-lying areas should have been informed hours ago. The administration needs to be more proactive, not just reactive. Still, good that they're acting now.
Remember the 2014 floods in Kashmir? This is exactly how it started. Hope the administration has learned lessons and is better prepared this time. Praying for everyone's safety. 🌊
As someone from Reasi, I can say the rain has been non-stop since yesterday. People are scared but the police advisories are helpful. Just wish they'd also arrange for emergency shelters in advance.
This is what happens when we don't maintain our infrastructure properly. The Salal Dam is old now and needs regular inspection. Climate change is making monsoons more unpredictable. We need better flood management systems across J&K.
Hats off to the J&K administration for quick response! But why are we still advising people to avoid travel instead of enforcing it? Some people won't take warnings seriously until it's too late. Need stricter measures.
Stay safe everyone in Rajouri and Reasi! 🌧️ My family is in Jammu and they said the rain hasn't stopped. Hope the Salal Dam
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