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(TOI BANGALORE)
Monday, April 29: Incessant rain over the weekend has transformed Kashmir’s rivers and streams into raging torrents while landslides triggered by the downpours have caused road closures in many areas. These developments have prompted authorities to urgent vigilance, especially for residents in low-lying areas and travelers.
The Jammu & Kashmir Chief Secretary held an emergency meeting on Thursday to ensure that various departments are fully prepared for potential flooding or landslides.
However, a terrible accident occurred on Sunday evening in Sonmarg, north Kashmir. Heavy rain and snowfall made the roads treacherous, causing a taxi to lose control and skid into the Nallah Sindh River. Tragically, four tourists died, and two others were seriously injured, TOI reported.
Further, cracks have developed in the mountainous parts of Mehad, Kishtwadi Patthar and Gangru Ramsu. This and the landslides sparked by the continuous rains in Ramban have led to road closures in these areas and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
In light of these events, schools in Srinagar will be closed on Monday as a safety measure due to adverse weather conditions and the potential for landslides.
Further, the Srinagar administration has urged residents, particularly those living near the Jhelum River and its tributaries, to exercise caution and avoid venting close to water bodies. Tourists, boatmen, and those using traditional river crossing points in Dal Lake and Jhelum River are asked to verify water levels before attempting to cross.
While the Irrigation and Flood Control Department assures there’s no immediate flood threat, preparedness is always better than panic. Farmers have been asked to suspend agricultural activities until April 30.
Lastly, residents and tourists are advised to stay updated on the latest weather advisories. As of now, up to widespread, moderate rainfall/snowfall with thunderstorms and lightning are likely over Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit, Baltistan and Muzaffarabad on Monday and Tuesday (April 29-30). Isolated heavy rains (64.5 mm-115.5 mm) are also expected in the region today.
So stay informed, exercise caution, and remember: help is just a call away. Emergency Operation Center (EOC) Srinagar and Police Control Room Srinagar are designated contact points for any emergencies or information needs.
(With inputs from agencies)
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