Surge in river flows triggers flood alert in AJK

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir government issued a high alert on Saturday after rising temperatures accelerated snowmelt, causing sharp fluctuations in river flows and heightening the risk of flooding in several areas, 24NewsHD TV reported. 

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) warned that increased water discharge in rivers and streams could trigger sudden surges, particularly in vulnerable districts, including Muzaffarabad.

All district administrations have been directed to remain on high alert and implement precautionary measures, including restricting unnecessary movement along riverbanks and near waterways.

The authority has also been instructed to intensify monitoring at sensitive locations and ensure rapid response readiness.

Surge in river flows triggers flood alert in AJK pic.twitter.com/6fyx5uDY5Y

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SDMA officials said a public awareness campaign would be launched to inform residents about potential risks, while special surveillance has been ordered in flood-prone areas to ensure the timely dissemination of information.

A sudden spike in river flow at Chakothi between 1200 and 1300 local time has also been reported, with authorities attributing it to the surge of possible water releases from spillways and reservoirs upstream near Uri (India).

Subsequently, a sharp rise in water levels was recorded between 1300 and 1400 hours, causing intense flooding conditions in downstream sections of the river, officials said.

The SDMA has directed that any emergency be reported immediately to its control centre to ensure swift coordination and response.