The Bhakra Dam's Floodgates were raised by more than 10 Feet
CHANDIGARH: Punjab finds itself grappling with another wave of devastating floods, as the waters of the Sutlej River inundate villages near Sri Anandpur Sahib. The situation has escalated to an alarming state, with both the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River and the Pong Dam on the Beas River nearing their danger levels. The Bhakra Dam's floodgates, which hadn't been opened to this extent in almost 35 years, were raised by more than 10 feet, while continuous discharges from the Pong Dam continue to compound the crisis.
The Floodgates of the Bhakra Dam were lifted by up to 12 feet on Monday, following a water level of 1678 feet on Sunday. The subsequent reduction to 1677 feet after the floodgate opening offered slight relief, although the levels remained concerning. Around 9 pm, the floodgate level started receding further. The incessant rains in Himachal Pradesh have propelled the Bhakra Dam's water levels to 1777.70 feet, standing a mere 3 feet below the danger mark.
A Humble request to all, Kindly ????
— Harjot Singh Bains (@harjotbains) August 16, 2023
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Notably, Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains has personally visited the flood-ravaged villages to assess the situation. He confirmed a gradual decrease in water levels overnight in most areas, though Harsa Bela remains severely affected. Bains also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the NDRF, Army, and Air Force in managing the crisis.
Harjot Bains
To aid the populace during these trying times, the administration has mobilized special teams of officers and employees for village deployment. However, the surging waters have rendered traditional rescue operations via boats challenging. Consequently, the Deputy Commissioner of Ropar has urgently requested helicopter assistance from the army for evacuation purposes.
Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains shared key updates about the flood-stricken villages:
- Gradual decline in water levels observed
- NDRF and army teams working to manage the crisis
- Successful evacuation of trapped individuals from Harsa Bela and Patti Dulchi villages
- Urged public to disregard baseless rumors
- Encouraged residents residing near the river to relocate to safer grounds
