Is the Flood Situation in J&K Becoming Critical?
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Synopsis
The flood crisis in Jammu and Kashmir has intensified, with rivers surpassing danger levels. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's emergency meeting highlights the urgent need for coordinated response and public safety measures. As essential services face disruption, residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed warnings. Will the region recover from this calamity?
Key Takeaways
- Flood levels have surpassed danger thresholds across multiple rivers.
- Emergency meetings are being conducted to coordinate relief efforts.
- Transportation services are heavily disrupted, impacting movement across the region.
- Authorities are urging residents to heed safety advisories.
- Weather forecasts indicate a potential improvement.
Srinagar/Jammu, Sep 3 (NationPress) The flood situation has deteriorated alarmingly on Wednesday in Jammu and Kashmir, with nearly all rivers and streams surpassing the flood threshold as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a meeting to evaluate the current conditions in the Union Territory.
By 1 p.m., the Chenab, Tawi, Ravi, Basantar, and Ujh rivers were all flowing above the flood level in Jammu, while the Jhelum, Vishow, Sindh, Sheshnag, Lidder, and other streams and nallahs in Kashmir were rapidly approaching the flood mark.
The Jhelum River was nearing evacuation levels at Sangam in Anantnag district, while at Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar, the river was just a foot below the flood mark.
In southern Kashmir, the Vishow, Lidder, and Sheshnag streams were already exceeding the flood level, and the Sindh stream in northern Kashmir was close to the flood threshold.
Reports indicate that several bridges in both South and North Kashmir have suffered damage due to rising flood waters.
Flooding from the Chenab River has submerged numerous villages in the Akhnoor region of Jammu district, prompting officials to use loudspeakers to warn residents in Jammu city to stay clear of the Tawi River, which is experiencing significant overflow.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held a meeting to review the flood situation, directing the administration to bolster ground response, clear waterlogged areas, protect essential services, execute timely evacuations in critical zones, and provide immediate relief.
Two ministers, Javed Rana and Satish Sharma, briefed him on the situation in Jammu, while Health Minister Sakina Itoo and advisor to the CM Nasir Sogami provided updates from Kashmir.
The Chief Minister urged the public to adhere to advisories and avoid at-risk areas.
The Srinagar-Jammu highway, Mughal Road, and Sinthan Pass have been closed, leading to panic buying among residents in the Valley due to shortages of essential goods.
Train services in the Jammu railway division have faced severe disruptions following heavy rains and flash floods, resulting in significant damage to the Pathankot-Jammu line.
The Northern Railway announced on Wednesday the cancellation of 68 inbound and outbound trains from Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra stations until September 30, although 24 services are being gradually restored.
Officials reported that rail traffic has been halted for the last eight days due to breaches and misalignments at multiple locations on the Pathankot-Jammu section. This situation has left numerous travelers, including Vaishno Devi pilgrims, stranded.
To assist stranded passengers, shuttle services have been initiated between Jammu Tawi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. Additionally, long-distance trains, such as Jammu Tawi-Kolkata and Katra-New Delhi, have resumed operations.
Four trains have been included in the Jammu Katra shuttle service from September 1 to 15, including the Sampark Kranti, Sealdah Express, Kantri Express, Trivandrum Express, and the popular Vande Bharat, which will restart operations on September 7.
The railways confirmed that two pairs of shuttle services are now operational daily between Jammu and Katra to accommodate local commuters and pilgrims.
Thus far, 5,784 stranded passengers have been transported in seven special trains from Jammu for their onward journeys.
Despite the partial resumption of services, normalcy in rail operations is anticipated to take weeks, considering the extent of the damage.
Authorities have suspended classes in schools and colleges in both the Jammu division and the Valley for the day.
The Meteorological (MeT) department has predicted a gradual improvement in weather starting this evening.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the ongoing flood crisis in Jammu and Kashmir with a focus on accurate reporting and community support. The situation demands a collective response, and we stand by the affected populations, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation regarding floods in Jammu and Kashmir?
The flood situation has worsened, with most rivers exceeding flood levels, prompting emergency measures from officials.
What actions are being taken by the government in response to the floods?
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is leading efforts to review the situation, coordinate responses, and ensure public safety.
Are there any transportation disruptions due to the floods?
Yes, train services have been significantly affected, and major roads are closed, causing panic among residents.
How are authorities assisting stranded passengers?
Shuttle services have been initiated between Jammu Tawi and Katra, and special trains are being operated to transport stranded passengers.
What can residents do to stay safe during this crisis?
Residents are advised to stay away from flood-affected areas, follow government advisories, and be prepared for evacuations if necessary.
