National Times Bureau :- The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has issued a concerning update regarding the rising water levels in the Pong and Bhakra dams, with levels now just one foot below the officially designated danger mark. Continuous inflow from the catchment areas, coupled with recent rainfall in the upper regions, has significantly increased the water volume in both reservoirs, raising alarm among the authorities and residents living downstream.
According to BBMB officials, the Bhakra Dam is currently holding an unprecedented amount of water for this time of the year, with its water level standing perilously close to the threshold that triggers emergency protocols. Similarly, the Pong Dam has reached near-record storage, pushing the situation into a critical zone where controlled releases may soon become necessary to prevent overtopping or potential structural stress.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have enhanced surveillance across the dam sites. Emergency response teams are on standby, and coordination has been intensified with state disaster management authorities of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Villages located along the Sutlej and Beas riverbanks have been alerted to remain vigilant, and preparations are underway for possible evacuation in vulnerable areas should water releases become unavoidable.
BBMB engineers have stated that while the dams are designed to handle large volumes, the current inflow rate remains high due to upstream precipitation and glacier melt, adding pressure to the system. “We are observing the inflow patterns continuously, and decisions regarding water release will be made in a phased and controlled manner to minimize any risk to downstream regions,” a senior BBMB official said.
The situation is being treated with utmost urgency, given the recent spate of heavy rains in the northern states and the forecast indicating further precipitation in the catchment areas over the coming days. State administrations have been urged to prepare contingency measures, including shifting people from low-lying zones, ensuring adequate food and medical supplies, and maintaining round-the-clock communication with dam authorities.
Experts have emphasized the importance of proactive management to prevent a flood-like situation similar to previous years when sudden water releases led to large-scale inundation in parts of Punjab and Haryana. Residents downstream are being advised to avoid unnecessary movement near riverbanks and to follow official advisories strictly.
As the water levels inch dangerously close to the red mark, the coming 48 to 72 hours will be critical in determining whether the situation stabilizes or necessitates emergency water discharge from the reservoirs. The BBMB has assured that it is fully equipped to manage the situation and will prioritize public safety while balancing the need to protect the structural integrity of the dams.
