Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab is reeling under flood-like conditions after heavy rainfall in the hills of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir pushed rivers and dams beyond safe levels. Six districts are facing the brunt of rising waters, while a yellow alert has been sounded for four others.
The Pong Dam has become a major concern, with water recorded at 1382.8 feet, exceeding its danger limit. To ease the pressure, authorities are releasing water into downstream rivers. Bhakra Dam is at 1663.34 feet, close to its threshold, and Ranjit Sagar Dam is also nearing the critical mark. Meanwhile, the opening of sluice gates at Sukhna Lake has increased the threat of flooding in areas along the Ghaggar River, especially in Patiala.
Low-lying parts of Pathankot are underwater as the Ravi River continues to rise, inundating border posts and villages. In Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Sultanpur Lodhi, and Tarn Taran, the swelling Beas River has flooded homes and agricultural land. Fazilka too is struggling with overflowing Sutlej waters.
On the ground, relief operations are in full swing. Khalsa Aid volunteers have reached Sultanpur Lodhi, where they are rescuing cattle, shifting villagers to higher ground, and distributing food supplies.
Transport has taken a hit, with train services on the Pathankot–Jammu line disrupted due to damaged tracks and landslides. Some trains have been curtailed, and passengers have been asked to confirm schedules before travelling.
The weather department has forecast more rain on Tuesday, particularly in districts adjoining Himachal Pradesh, before conditions improve for a brief period from Wednesday. However, monsoon showers are expected to return strongly by August 23.
