Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district have opened all spillway gates of the Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project due to a significant rise in water levels following continuous heavy rainfall. The decision was made as a precautionary measure to manage the increased flow in the Chenab River.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Varunjeet Singh Charak confirmed that an advisory was received from the engineering division of the Baglihar project, prompting immediate alerts to the public and administrative officials.
“We have issued an advisory asking the general public to stay away from riverbanks and tributaries, as conditions could be hazardous,” Charak said.
The Additional District Magistrate of Ramban has directed all concerned departments — including Revenue, Police, SDRF, and Rural Development — to monitor the situation and maintain close coordination, especially along vulnerable stretches of the Chenab River.
Local officials such as Lamberdars, Chowkidars, GRS, and VLWs have been instructed to ensure public compliance and discourage movement of people, livestock, or vehicles near water bodies.
The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) confirmed that the water levels in the Chenab have been rising steadily, making it necessary to open all spillways to avoid any structural or environmental risks.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has issued a weather advisory, warning of possible flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in susceptible regions. The forecast indicates hot and humid conditions with isolated rainfall from August 1 to 3, followed by widespread rain or thunderstorms between August 4 and 6, particularly across the Jammu Division.
Residents across low-lying and river-adjacent areas are urged to remain vigilant and avoid venturing near water bodies until further notice.