Above average rainfalls are keeping flood threat alive in JK

Srinagar, July 5: Kashmir has been receiving above average rainfall in June, making the valley fear a possible flood.

A flood alert was sounded last week when the water level in the Jhelum rose above the danger mark.

This triggered panic among the masses, who feared a repeat of 2014.

Although the threat has passed for now, the respite might be short lived as the slight to moderate downpour causes a flood-like situation in parts of Kashmir.

At the same time, the government has not taken any preventive measures to avoid such situations, as Valley had been at the verge of floods several times in the last three years.

Official figures of Meteorological Department show that the month of June has frequently seen a spurt in seasonal precipitation.

The figures reveal that Srinagar, the summer capital, has received 73.9 millimeters (MM) of rain in June against the average of 43.5mm.

Districts and tourist destinations, Kupwara, Kokernag, Qazigund, Gulmarg and Pahalgam have received 67.6mm, 200.5, 144mm, 141mm and 135.6 mm against the average of 57 mm, 78 mm, 70 mm, 101 mm and 90 mm, respectively.

Deputy Director Meteorological Department, Mukhtar Ahmad, said Kashmir has been receiving above average rainfall in the month of June.

“South Kashmir comprising of Shopian, Kulgam, Kokernag, Qazigund, Pahalgam and Anantnag can face the highest risk of floods in the valley every-time the areas receive above average rainfall,” he said.

The Deputy Director said the occurrence of floods is most likely if these areas record more than 75 mm of rainfall.

“The continuous 48-72 hours of rainfall can lead south Kashmir to another flood-like situation,” he said.

Experts attribute the massive rainfall to merging of western disturbances and monsoon at the same time.

“There was already a strong presence of western disturbances and monsoon also struck the valley in mid-June adding to the moisture levels,” said Mukhtar

The Deputy Director said the inadequate carrying capacity within the banks of rivers is major factor contributing to floods.

“The carrying capacity of Jehlum and flood channels has been reduced over the years that it can’t tolerate even rains of 48 to 72 hours,” Mukhtar said.

He added, “The need of the hour is the scientific and extensive dredging throughout the length and breadth of Jehlum and its tributaries along with concrete bunds.”

An official of Irrigation and Flood Control Department said that Wular Lake, which is the largest flood absorption basin has lost the water carrying capacity due to host of factors.  “Several surveys have found that gross human interference, deforestation, encroachments, chocking of water ways and reduction in capacity of wet lands due to heavy siltation posing an imminent threat of floods even by average downpour,” the official added.