Kashmir Sees Reduced Flood Threat as Rainfall Ceases and Water Levels Fall

Flood threats in Kashmir have seen a significant reduction as water levels in the Jhelum River and other water bodies began to recede following a halt in the three-day incessant rainfall. The situation improved late Monday night, with only Kupwara and some low-lying areas still facing flood risks. Officials reported that the water level at downstream locations along the Jhelum River continued to rise for a few hours on Tuesday, surpassing the flood declaration mark at Pampore in Pulwama and Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar. However, these levels have since started to decline.

Similarly, the water level in the Jhelum River at Sangam in Anantnag district exceeded the flood declaration threshold late Monday night. The cessation of rain around 11:00 pm led to a gradual decrease in water levels, according to authorities. The heavy rainfall that began on Friday caused several water bodies across Kashmir to swell, with Pohru Nallah in Kupwara district overflowing and triggering flash floods in the area.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah visited the flood-hit regions of Kupwara, calling for government compensation for those affected by the floods. He highlighted the urgent need for adaptation to climate change, citing unusual rainfall in traditionally dry areas like Dubai. "It seems we have not learned any lessons from 2014. The climate is changing... We will have to change ourselves according to the changing climate," Abdullah remarked.

In addition to advocating for compensation, Abdullah emphasized the necessity for effective measures to handle such future incidents. Peoples Conference leader Sajad Lone also toured the flood-impacted zones of Kupwara and Handwara. Both Abdullah and Lone are candidates in the upcoming Baramulla Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 20.

The aftermath of the rainfall has left many low-lying areas across Kashmir, including Srinagar, inundated due to rainwater accumulation. Efforts are underway to pump out the water as roads across the valley remain waterlogged, causing difficulties for motorists. In response to the flooding risk, authorities have shut all schools in the valley as a precautionary measure and the University of Kashmir has postponed all exams that were set for Tuesday.

This incident underscores the broader challenges faced by regions across the globe as they grapple with the effects of climate change. The swift response by local leaders and authorities highlights an ongoing commitment to safeguarding communities and adapting to an ever-changing environmental landscape.