Over 9,500 people in Jammu and Kashmir have been safely evacuated following heavy rains and flooding caused by breaches in the Jhelum River embankment. The incidents happened early Friday morning in Srinagar and Budgam districts, as the river water rose close to dangerous levels.
The breaches occurred at two key spots — Sangam in Anantnag and Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar — forcing authorities to act quickly. Just a day earlier, the Jhelum River had also burst its banks at Shalina village in Budgam, leading to urgent evacuations and rescue operations.
Floodwaters entered many residential areas and villages, damaging homes and farmland. Emergency teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), were deployed to evacuate people to safer locations. Many villagers and residents recalled hearing loud sounds early Thursday morning, which were likely caused by the embankment giving way, before floodwaters rushed into houses and streets.
Several localities have been deeply affected, including Shalina, Kanihama, Lasjan, Soiteng, Nowgam, Vyethpora, Golpora, Padshahibagh, and Mehjoornagar. Crops like paddy fields were submerged, leading to significant losses for farmers.
As of Friday morning, the water level of the Jhelum River was still high but below danger marks. At Sangam in Anantnag, the river was flowing at 20.54 feet, just under the 25-foot warning level. In Srinagar at Ram Munshi Bagh, it measured 21.48 feet.
To support displaced families, the district administration in Budgam has set up six relief centers at local schools. Rescue teams, including police and officials from the Revenue Department, have been working tirelessly with equipment and manpower to assist those affected.
The Meteorological Department has also reported that the weather is gradually improving. They forecast no major rainfall in Kashmir until around September 12. However, moderate rain is expected in Jammu on September 8 and 9, but overall, the weather conditions are expected to stay mild.
In response to the floods, local authorities have closed schools, colleges, and universities across the Kashmir Valley for the day to ensure safety.
Authorities continue monitoring the situation closely, working hard to support affected residents and prevent further flood damage.
