SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is grappling with a severe weather situation as incessant rainfall in the higher areas has led to a dangerous rise in water levels in the region’s rivers and tributaries. The situation is particularly dire in Kashmir, where the Jhelum River has crossed the danger mark at two critical locations, prompting a high alert from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department.
According to a bulletin released by the department at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the water level of the Jhelum River at Sangam has reached 25.51 ft, surpassing the flood declaration level of 21 ft and the danger mark of 25 ft. Similarly, at Pampore, the river is flowing at 5.19 meters, exceeding its danger mark of 5.0 meters. Both gauges show a “rising” status, indicating that the situation could worsen in the coming hours.
The main river’s tributaries are also contributing to the flood threat. The Vishow Nallah at Khudwani has already overflowed, with a water level of 11.20 meters against a flood alert level of 7.75 meters. Other tributaries, including the Rambiyara Nallah at Wachi (3.92m), Lidder Nallah at Batkoot (1.57m), and Sindh Nallah at Doderhama (3.72m), are also showing elevated water levels, though they remain below the danger mark.
The situation has triggered widespread concern across the erstwhile state. Authorities have issued a public advisory urging residents, especially those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to remain vigilant and avoid venturing near water bodies and hill slopes. All schools and educational institutions in the Kashmir division have been closed as a precautionary measure.
In the Jammu region, which has been battered by heavy rains for days, rivers and streams are also flowing close to or above the danger mark. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the primary road connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country, remains closed due to multiple landslides and landslips.
Authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation, and contingency plans are in place to address any further escalation. Rescue and relief teams from the State and National Disaster Response Forces are on standby to assist with any potential emergencies. The Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Kashmir, is continuously updating the public with the latest gauge readings as the region braces for the possibility of further flooding.
