Flood alert in north Kashmir as Jehlum overflowed at Ashum

Srinagar, Aug 9 (UNI) A flood alert has been sounded in north Kashmir as river Jhelum overflowed above danger mark at Ashum-Sonawari.

However, it was still several feet below danger mark at Sangam in south Kashmir and Rammunshi Bagh in the city, officials said.

They said the water level in the Jhelum river was flowing about half-a-feet above danger mark at Ashum, threatening the low-lying areas in north Kashmir.

The authorities have cancelled the leave and other holidays of employees of the Flood control and Irrigation departments.

Authorities are keeping round the clock vigil on the river banks and thousands of sand bag are kept ready to meet any challenge, they said.

However, water level at Sangam and Rammunshi Bagh receeded as the weather improved due to no rains in the past 24 hours.

Reports said water level of nullahs rose posing a flood threat to people living on the bank side. However, majority of the people, have already been shifted to safer places.

UNI BAS KD PM1549