Rising water level in rivers threatens flash floods in Jamshedpur

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Aug 19: The risk of flash floods looms large in the low-lying areas of steel city following a steep rise in the water level of Swarnarekha and Kharkai rivers.

Sources said one of the sluice gates of the Odisha-based Byangbil Dam had been opened following continuous rains. The gate was opened in the morning after the dam water level almost reached the danger level. The discharged water is likely to reach the city late night, sources said.

In view of the alarming situation, district administration has alerted the residents of low-lying areas residing close to river banks in Shastrinagar, Sonari, Mango, Bagbera, Jugsalai and elsewhere. Measures are being taken to make advance preparations for flood relief measures.

Meanwhile, sources said the water level at Galudih barrage dam has reached the danger mark, raising anxiety of villagers living nearby. Odisha government is learnt to have refused to take water coming from Jharkhand rivers. The villages situated on the bordering areas are worried as the barrage gate has been opened.

Much to the relief of the people of Kolhan, rains stopped on Monday after a drizzle in the morning. Dark clouds in the sky wafted away, giving way to sunshine. This however has not completely relieved the people of the flash flood anxiety. District administration officials visited the low-lying areas prone to flash floods and took measures to facilitate drainage of water that entered several households in Chaibasa and Chakradharpur.