Heavy rains cause panic in parts of Kashmir valley, flood alert sounded

Srinagar, Jun 29 (KNB): Heavy rains lashed several parts of the Valley has causing major panic among the general public particularly in Southern parts of Kashmir with authorities cautioning of a possibility of flood like situation, even in the Srinagar city.
Many parts of Kashmir received heavy rains since early morning, an official of the Meteorological (MeT) department said, adding, the rainfall has led to an increase in the water level in streams and rivers across the Valley, especially in south Kashmir.
The water level has been sharply increasing since morning as there has been an increase of around one feet with each hour since 9 am.
The Irrigation and Flood Control Department has asked people residing near streams in south Kashmir to remain vigilant.
In view of precipitation, forecast and rise in water levels the habitations residing along tributaries (nallahs) of south Kashmir, especially Vishow Nallah, Lidder Nallah, are advised to remain vigilant during the day and also at night today to avoid any sudden flood damages, the department said.



Pertinently, monsoon arrived in Jammu and Kashmir a week ahead of its schedule this year, as intermittent light rains lashed several parts of the state bringing the mercury down by several notches, much to the respite of people reeling under sweltering heat.
In a review meeting held here today Shri Umang Narula, CEO, Shrine Board, informed the Governor N.N. Vohra, who is Chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, that movement of pilgrims to the Shrine via the Baltal route was totally suspended due to the non-stop rainfall in the entire Yatra area since 27th June night, keeping in view the safety of Yatris. However, 1263 pilgrims proceeded from the Pahalgam/ Chandanwari route to Sheshnag today morning.
At the close of the second day of the Yatra 1,287 pilgrims paid obeisance at Holy Cave.
Meanwhile in view of the inclement weather situation with incessant rains in the district, the Srinagar district administration has set up a helpline for the general public to get in touch for any assistance that might be required. The general public has been asked to call on 7051112345 or 9419042342 should there be a need to get in touch with the administration for assistance. (KNB)