Jamshedpur: The threat of a flash flood looms large over Jamshedpur as incessant rains for the past 48 hours have caused a significant rise in the water levels of both the Subernarekha and Kharkai rivers. According to officials from the state water resources department, the Kharkai river has already crossed the danger mark, while the Subarnarekha river is nearing dangerous levels, sparking concerns of widespread flooding in low-lying areas.
East Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal has issued an urgent appeal to residents living in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant. “People residing near the riverbanks should move to safer places and avoid venturing near the rivers,” Mittal said, emphasizing the importance of staying alert during this critical period.
Local MLA and Jharkhand Health Minister, Banna Gupta, also urged district officials to monitor the situation closely and take immediate preventive measures. “We need to ensure that people in flood-prone areas are evacuated to safety,” he said, instructing his party workers to assist affected communities.
Rising River Levels Spark Evacuations
The Subarnarekha River, which has a danger level of 121.50 meters, is currently at 118.84 meters at the Mango bridge site. Meanwhile, the Kharkai River, with a danger level of 129 meters, has already exceeded that, reaching 129.07 meters at the Adityapur bridge site. The local administration has sounded alarms across the Singhbhum-Kolhan region after Odisha opened two sluice gates of a dam on the Kharkai river, further elevating water levels.
In response, local authorities have deployed a mobile public address system to alert residents of the rising water and the need to evacuate. Several families in low-lying areas have already begun relocating to safer ground.
Dimna Lake gates opened amid rising water
To ease pressure on the city’s water system, officials also opened the radial gates of Dimna Lake. While the rainfall has brought relief to paddy farmers, agriculture experts have warned that maize and vegetable crops may suffer damage if the water is not drained promptly and the crops are not treated with appropriate pesticides.
“If the standing water isn’t cleared soon, and proper precautions aren’t taken, there’s a high risk of crop damage,” cautioned a local agricultural scientist.
The ongoing weather depression over Jharkhand has triggered heavy to moderate rainfall over the last 24 hours, and according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), rains are expected to continue through today. The situation is likely to improve by tomorrow, providing some respite for the people of Jamshedpur.
Residents have been advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and safety advisories as the situation continues to evolve.
