Chandigarh: The Meteorological Department has forecast that Punjab will enter another round of monsoon showers beginning tomorrow. Wednesday brought normal weather across the state, but officials say the incoming rainfall could bring down temperatures. Despite the wet spell, the overall rainfall this season still remains below average.
Rising Water Levels in Dams
Heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has swelled reservoirs, forcing controlled releases of water. The Pong Dam on the Beas River, currently filled beyond the danger point, is discharging large volumes to prevent overflow. On Tuesday, the water level stood at 1383.3 feet, with inflows and outflows balanced at 59,835 cusecs.
Precautionary Steps in Hoshiarpur
The Hoshiarpur administration has declared a safety alert, with Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain overseeing the monitoring process. An hourly reporting system is in place to track dam levels, and officials are deployed across flood-prone villages to act swiftly if required. Jain reassured residents that all relief and safety arrangements are ready, urging people not to panic or trust unverified rumors. The District Control Room (01882-220412) has been activated for emergencies.
Situation of Other Dams
Reservoir readings at 6 am on August 21 showed that all three major dams in the region are filled to more than 85% capacity:
- Bhakra Dam (Sutlej River): 1666.00 feet (87.35% full); inflow – 58,671 cusecs; outflow – 40,392 cusecs.
- Pong Dam (Beas River): 1383.12 feet (83.25% full); inflow/outflow – 59,835 cusecs.
- Thein Dam (Ravi River): 1716.19 feet (88.36% full); inflow – 18,216 cusecs; outflow – 8,426 cusecs.
Forecast for 13 Districts
Weather experts have issued a heavy rain alert for 13 districts of Punjab from Thursday onwards. With dams already nearing full capacity, authorities have advised citizens to avoid risky travel and stay prepared for possible disruptions in low-lying areas.
