An unusual rise in the water level of the River Jhelum has caused panic among the residents of Muzaffarabad, with some fearing it could be a flash flood caused by India’s release of water after suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Locals initially worried about debris and the possibility of a flash flood, but authorities dismissed these concerns, explaining that the rise was part of the typical seasonal flow due to snowmelt.
According to Akhtar Mahmood from the Flood Forecasting Division (FFD), the current water flow in the River Jhelum (47,000 cusecs) is within normal seasonal levels and doesn’t qualify as a flood. A low flood in the river is defined as between 75,000 and 110,000 cusecs. This time of year usually sees rising water levels in rivers due to melting snow and rainfall. The increase in flow could also be attributed to the cleaning of a mini-reservoir at the Kishanganga hydroelectric project, although snowmelt is believed to be the primary cause.
Despite some initial concerns, the Muzaffarabad division commissioner confirmed that the surge passed through the area without causing damage. The flood wave had peaked at 26.4 cumecs but subsided quickly. While there was no reported damage, residents were advised to remain cautious near riverbanks.
Meanwhile, the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) released significant amounts of water from various rim stations, including the River Indus, which recorded inflows and outflows consistent with seasonal patterns. At Mangla Dam, the water level was 79.60 feet higher than its dead level, reflecting the ongoing seasonal rise in water flow.
AJK faces concern as River Jhelum’s flows surge.Key Points:
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Panic in Muzaffarabad: Residents feared a flash flood caused by India’s water release under the IWT.
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Official Explanation: Authorities confirmed that the rise in River Jhelum’s water level is due to snowmelt, not a flood from India’s water release.
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Water Flow Levels: Current flow of 47,000 cusecs in River Jhelum is within the typical seasonal range.
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Local Impact: The flood wave passed through Muzaffarabad without causing any damage, and the water flow later decreased.
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IRSA Water Releases: IRSA released significant amounts of water from various stations, with normal inflows and outflows for the season.
While the surge in the River Jhelum’s water level initially sparked fears of a flash flood, officials have clarified that it is a natural, seasonal occurrence linked to snowmelt. Despite the concerns, the flood wave passed through the region without causing damage. Local authorities have urged residents to exercise caution, but the situation is not expected to lead to further risks. The ongoing seasonal releases from various rivers in the region are consistent with regular water flow patterns and are being closely monitored by the relevant authorities.
