Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Sept 7: Authorities in north Kashmir moved several families from low-lying areas of Sopore to safer places today after heavy rainfall raised water levels in the Jhelum and Wullar lake, though officials said there is no immediate flood threat in Baramulla.
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Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, said the administration is closely monitoring the situation. “The water level in Sopore currently stands at 3.15 metres against the alert mark of 3.60 metres, while in Baramulla it is at 3.7 metres against an alert level of 4.5 metres. Although the levels remain below danger thresholds, the next two to three days are crucial, as Wullar lake has reached 15.77 metres, close to its alert mark,” he told reporters during a visit to Sopore.
Flood control teams have been deployed across vulnerable points to strengthen embankments and prevent breaches. “We are ensuring our embankments are secured. A flood spill channel at Haritar, which had developed an issue earlier, has also been rectified,” Sherpa added.
Officials said minor waterlogging was reported in a few Sopore localities, though most residential areas remain unaffected. Families in vulnerable pockets were temporarily relocated. Essential services, including electricity, road connectivity, and water supply, are functioning normally, the DC said.
With the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) releasing additional water at Uri and Gantmulla, authorities expect the Jhelum’s outflow to remain smooth, helping accumulated water levels decline in coming days. “The situation is under control. There is no need to panic, but those living near riverbanks should remain vigilant,” Sherpa said.
He later said that while north Kashmir is not facing a flood crisis, precautionary measures remain in place. “Although Wullar’s water level has risen, our teams on the ground have managed the situation effectively, providing relief to affected families. Weather forecasts indicate significant improvement in the coming days,” he added.
Meanwhile, district administration, including officials of Flood Control and Sopore police, have been placed on alert and resources mobilized for any emergency response.
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