Jammu: The serene landscape of Jammu and Kashmir has been marred by the fury of nature as sudden floods wreak havoc across the regions of Mendhar and Uri. The relentless downpour has escalated into flood-like conditions, sweeping away numerous vehicles and obstructing vital roadways.
In the district of Poonch, the town of Mendhar is witnessing continuous rainfall, causing rivers and streams to swell dangerously. The inundation has led to the complete closure of the road connecting Mendhar to Poonch, isolating residents and disrupting daily life. Rural areas are also experiencing the brunt of the strong water currents, prompting local authorities to urge citizens to maintain a safe distance from riverbanks.
The situation has deteriorated in Ganderbal district, where several villages are now submerged under floodwaters. In response, a coordinated effort by the Army, Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is underway to prevent further encroachment of rainwater into the villages.
Amidst these challenging conditions, the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued an avalanche warning for the high-altitude regions of Kupwara and Ganderbal districts in the Kashmir Valley. The Meteorological Department forecasts continued rainfall across most parts of the state until April 17, exacerbating the potential for more natural calamities.
The strategic Mughal Road, which connects Poonch-Rajori to Shopian, remains closed until further notice due to heavy snowfall. Kishtwar district has not been spared, enduring persistent rains and snowfall in the higher elevations, including the Sinthan Top area.
Authorities have taken the precautionary measure of closing the Kishtwar-Anantnag highway to prevent travelers from becoming stranded in the snow-laden Sinthan Top. The JKDMA has heightened its alert to a ‘moderate danger’ level for potential avalanches above 2400 meters in the central Kashmir districts of Kupwara and Ganderbal.
Residents and visitors alike are advised to exercise extreme caution and adhere to the directives issued by local authorities during this period of natural upheaval.
