Jhelum river degradation raises alarm in Bijbehara; school, other structures at risk
Locals demand urgent action against encroachments, illegal mining as embankments weaken
Anantnag: The deteriorating condition of the Jhelum River in Bijbehara area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district has triggered serious concern among residents, with unchecked illegal encroachments and excessive sand extraction threatening both the river’s ecosystem and public safety.
Locals say that the river’s natural course has been significantly disturbed over the past few years due to rampant human interference.
Encroachments along the banks have narrowed the water channel, while unregulated sand mining has weakened the riverbed and adjoining embankments, leaving the area vulnerable to flooding.
“The river is no longer flowing the way it used to. Its banks have been tampered with, and sand extraction has hollowed out the base,” said Abdul Rashid, a local resident. “If this continues, even a moderate rise in water level could lead to flooding in our area.”
Particular concern has been raised over the safety of the Girls Higher Secondary School Bijbehara, which lies in close proximity to the affected stretch of the river. Students, parents, and school staff fear that any further erosion or embankment failure could directly impact the institution.
“We are worried for our children. The school is very close to the river, and the condition of the embankment is getting worse day by day,” said a parent, adding that the authorities must act before the situation escalates.
Residents also pointed out visible cracks and erosion along protective embankments, claiming that no substantial repair or reinforcement work has been carried out despite repeated appeals.
“There are clear signs of damage along the embankments, but no serious intervention has taken place so far,” said another local, Ghulam Nabi. “The administration should not wait for a tragedy to happen.”
Locals have urged the government and district administration to take immediate corrective measures, including the removal of illegal encroachments along the riverbanks, a strict crackdown on unauthorized sand mining, and urgent repair and strengthening of embankments.
They have also called for a long-term, sustainable plan to restore the river’s natural flow and protect surrounding areas from environmental degradation.
Residents warned that continued neglect could put not only educational institutions but also nearby residential areas at significant risk. They stressed that timely intervention is critical to avert a potential disaster and ensure the safety of thousands living along the riverbanks.
