Breach in Jhelum Embankment Sparks Evacuation Alerts on Srinagar Outskirts

SRINAGAR: A breach in the Jhelum embankment at Zinpora, Pampore, on Thursday triggered fresh fears of flooding on the outskirts of Srinagar, with the district administration issuing precautionary evacuation advisories for several low-lying areas.

Officials confirmed that the river has breached its banks near Rakh Shalina and Tengan, with water already entering habitations in parts of Pampore. The breach is expected to impact a wide stretch along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, including Pahroo, Shalina, Kanihama, Lasjan, Soiteng, Nowgam, Vyethpora, Golpora, Padshahibagh, and Mehjoornagar.

In response, the District Administration Srinagar asked residents of the vulnerable belts to move to safer places immediately. Relief centres have been set up, with designated nodal officers from the administration and Srinagar Municipal Corporation placed in charge to coordinate assistance. Announcements urging evacuation have been made through masjids, local committees, and revenue and police officials.

Authorities said the breach near Pampore has aggravated the situation, raising the risk of widespread inundation by afternoon and evening. Rescue and relief teams have been kept on standby, while engineers and officials are monitoring embankments to prevent further damage.

“This is the first major threat of flood on the outskirts of Srinagar city, and residents are advised to stay alert, but there is no need to panic,” an official said.