SRINAGAR: Seven individuals, including four women and three minors, were safely rescued from the rapidly swelling Ujh River in Kathua district on Tuesday following incessant rainfall that caused a sudden and significant rise in water levels. The group had become stranded near Mahi Chak village.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the civilians were trapped after the river’s water level surged due to the heavy downpour in the region. Upon receiving distress calls, a coordinated rescue operation was promptly launched involving personnel from the local police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
Following sustained and intensive efforts, the joint rescue teams successfully evacuated all seven individuals. They were subsequently handed over to their relieved families. Officials confirmed the identities of the rescued persons as Malka Khatam, 50; Zulfa Begum, 30; Seema Begum, 60; Iqbal Ali, 9; Shaina Bano, 11; Mobina Bano, 17; and Asia Bano, 16. The swift action by the authorities averted a potential tragedy.
In light of the ongoing wet spell, the Kathua Police issued an advisory urging residents to exercise extreme caution. They strongly advised against approaching rivers, streams, and temporary water channels, especially during periods of rising water levels. The advisory aims to prevent further incidents and ensure public safety.
According to data released by the Meteorological Department, Kathua district recorded the highest rainfall in the Jammu and Kashmir region within the 24-hour period concluding at 5:30 PM on Tuesday. The district registered a substantial 156 mm of rainfall. Other areas in the Jammu division also experienced significant precipitation, with Jammu city recording 79 mm, Katra receiving 71 mm, and Samba measuring 55 mm.
The intense rainfall across the region has led to a sharp increase in water levels in various rivers and other water bodies. This surge has triggered flash-flood-like conditions in several low-lying areas, with Kathua district being particularly affected. The swollen Ujh River posed a significant threat to those caught near its banks.
The Meteorological Department has forecasted the continuation of wet weather conditions across the Union Territory until August 22. Specific predictions include the likelihood of heavy rain or brief, intense rainfall spells in some districts on August 12. Additionally, another possibility of heavy showers has been indicated between August 17 and 19, potentially affecting one or two districts within the Jammu division. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have prepared disaster response teams to address any further emergencies arising from the adverse weather.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
