Flood threat looms over Valley

Srinagar: As flood threat looms over Kashmir Valley, Metrological Department Friday said that there will be significant improvement in weather from Saturday.
“There will be intermittent rainfall till Friday morning and afterwards weather will improve,” said Director Metrological Department Jammu and Kashmir, Sonam Lotus.
Sonam Lotus downplayed flood threats even as several streams and the Jhelum River are in full spate and damages were reported from parts of the Valley.
“There are chances that minor flash floods may hit some parts of Kashmir Valley but there is no possibility of major floods,” he said.
“There can be landslide in sloppy area, flash flood, minor flood & water logging in low lying areas. People are requested to remain calm but vigilant, prepared and not to spread rumours of flood,” Lotus added.
He said that looking at the forecast, the threat of a major flood is highly unlikely but nevertheless, it is always good to be prepared.
An official from Irrigation and Flood Control Department said that Sangam has crossed danger level mark while Vishu and Liddar Nallh have also crossed danger mark. He however said that water level is constant at Ranbiara and other nallahs.
“We hope that water levels will recede once rain stops,” he added.
He said they were assessing the problem of waterlogging. “Mechanical and engineering departments have started dewatering the affected areas.”
Reports said that shopkeepers in many parts of South Kashmir have shifted their merchandize to safer places. “The bitter experience of 2014 floods has prompted us to be prepared in advance. We don’t want to take any chance this time,” said a trader.