New Delhi: In the Ramban region of Jammu and Kashmir, heavy rains and flooding led to the opening of several gates of the Baglihar dam on the Chenab River, after India had recently stopped the water flow. The halt in flow happened as a diplomatic response following a fatal terrorist attack that resulted in 26 deaths, primarily among tourists, in the Baisaran meadow of Anantnag district on April 21.
The intense rainfall triggered landslides and rockfalls on highways, leading to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on Thursday.
A sudden flood affected the Ramban market, yet authorities stated there were no fatalities. The traffic department declared that vehicle movement was stopped at 7:30 AM because of several mudslides and rockfalls, leaving many vehicles stuck.
Notable mudslides were observed in regions like Chamba-Seeri close to Ramban town. Additionally, persistent rain hindered the efforts to clear the roads. Officials recommended avoiding travel on NH-44 until conditions got better.
The weather outlook indicates mostly cloudy skies accompanied by light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds in Jammu and Kashmir from May 8 to 11, with a possibility of scattered light rain or thunderstorms on May 12.
The Baglihar dam, integral to India's water management approach, has been a focal point of recent diplomatic strains concerning the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, after India chose to modify water flow through its hydroelectric initiatives, such as Baglihar and Kishanganga. This scenario has amplified conversations about water rights and governance between the two countries.
