Dinanagar: A flood-like situation has emerged in parts of Punjab with the water levels of the Sutlej and Beas rivers continuing to rise steadily after days of heavy rainfall.
Adding to the concern, the impact of a powerful cyclone in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua region last night has caused the Ravi River to swell significantly. Authorities confirmed that due to the rising currents, boat services at Makora Pattan, which connect nearly half a dozen villages, have been suspended until conditions improve.
Speaking to reporters, a boat operator explained that the surge in the Ravi’s water level posed a serious risk to passengers. “The river is rising continuously, and keeping people’s safety in mind, we had no option but to stop operations,” he said.
Meanwhile, the district administration stated that the Ravi river is expected to carry more than 1.5 lakh cusecs of water today, as tributaries and drains in Jammu’s Kathua belt are overflowing. Officials have advised residents to avoid venturing near the Ravi and remain on alert.
Administration officials further assured that contingency measures are already in place. “Our teams are fully prepared to tackle any situation. There is no reason for panic,” said a senior officer, adding that monitoring has been intensified across vulnerable areas.