JAMMU: More than 100 locations along the banks of the River Chenab have suffered extensive damage due to soil erosion over the past two years, according to information provided in response to a legislative query by Hon’ble MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat. The Jal Shakti Department has undertaken a Rs 55.54 crore project under NABARD to mitigate the impact of erosion in the affected villages.
The damages, recorded between 2022-23 and 2023-24, have significantly affected villages along both the right and left banks of the River Chenab. The government has outlined a detailed list of damaged sites and flood protection efforts undertaken to curb further destruction.
Some of the most severely impacted areas include Sangrampur, Maira, Chanjwan, Dalpat Pura, Sitriwala, Indri, Gair, Bakore, Pangali, Hamirpur Sidhar, Kotli Fattu Garkhal, Gujral, and Chak Sikander. The damages primarily include breaches in flood protection works, collapse of crate revetments, diversion channels, and embankments along various stretches of the river.
The Jal Shakti Department, in response to these damages, has initiated extensive flood protection works, including strengthening existing embankments, installing new crate revetments, and constructing diversion channels. The NABARD-funded Rs 55.54 crore project aims to safeguard inhabited areas and agricultural land by fortifying riverbanks over a total stretch of 29 kilometres.
The affected villages, particularly those in low-lying areas, have expressed concerns over recurring soil erosion, which threatens homes and farmland. Local residents have urged the government to expedite the implementation of protective measures to prevent further loss.
The government has stated that restoration and reinforcement efforts are ongoing, with priority being given to high-risk areas. The success of these interventions will be crucial in preventing future soil erosion incidents and ensuring the safety of communities residing along the River Chenab.
