Jhelum Recedes, But Fresh Wet Spell May Test Kashmir Again from July 28
River flows below flood levels as authorities maintain vigil across vulnerable stretches
MeT warns of heavy rain, flash floods and landslides; public advised to remain alert
Srinagar: Even as the swollen River Jhelum began receding on Saturday, bringing much-needed relief after days of incessant rain, authorities have warned that the respite could be short-lived, with the Meteorological Department forecasting another significant wet spell across Jammu and Kashmir from July 28.
According to the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department, water levels in the Jhelum have fallen below the flood declaration mark at all major gauge stations. The latest readings showed the river flowing at 19.77 feet at Sangam, against the flood declaration level of 21 feet, while the gauge at Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar stood at 18.89 feet, indicating a steady decline. Water levels in the downstream reaches, including Asham and Wular Lake, continued to rise gradually as the floodwaters moved northwards but remained within safe limits.
Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Er Showkat Hussain said the flood peak had crossed Srinagar and was now moving towards north Kashmir.
“The river has started receding in south and central Kashmir. The peak has crossed Srinagar and is moving downstream. There is no immediate flood threat, but we are monitoring the situation round the clock,” he said.
Hussain said engineers and field staff remain deployed along embankments and other vulnerable locations.
“Our teams are on alert 24×7. We are continuously monitoring the gauges and inspecting embankments. People living close to the river should remain cautious and immediately report any signs of erosion or breaches,” he added.
Meanwhile, Director, Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said the weather would largely remain stable over the next two days before another active western disturbance, coupled with monsoon winds, affects the Union Territory.
“Weather is expected to remain generally dry till July 27. However, from July 28 to 31, another spell of widespread rain is likely over Jammu and Kashmir. There is a possibility of heavy rainfall at isolated places, particularly in the Jammu division, while Kashmir may also witness moderate to heavy showers in some areas,” Dr Ahmad said.
He warned that the fresh spell could trigger flash floods in vulnerable areas, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, waterlogging in low-lying areas and a rise in water levels in rivers and streams.
“People, especially those living in low-lying areas or travelling on hilly roads, should remain vigilant and follow official advisories. Tourists and Amarnath Yatra pilgrims should plan their travel according to weather updates and avoid venturing into vulnerable areas during periods of intense rainfall,” he said.
Officials in the Disaster Management Department said all district administrations have been advised to remain prepared, keep emergency response teams on standby and ensure rescue equipment is readily available in vulnerable areas.
The latest decline in the Jhelum has brought relief to thousands of residents who spent anxious days watching the river inch closer to danger levels. However, with another wet spell on the horizon, authorities said complacency would be risky.
“The situation is under control at present, but the forecast demands continued vigilance. We are closely coordinating with the Meteorological Department and district administrations. There is no need to panic, but people must remain alert and cooperate with local authorities whenever advisories are issued,” an I&FC official said.
Officials urged the public to avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams and landslide-prone areas during the forecast period and to rely only on official weather and flood advisories as Jammu and Kashmir braces for another round of potentially intense rainfall.
