Hoshiarpur – Authorities have stepped up warnings to residents along the Beas River after the Pong Dam released a significant amount of water over the past two days, raising water levels and increasing the risk of flooding in nearby areas.
Two days ago, at 6 a.m., the Pong Dam opened six floodgates, releasing 40,000 cusecs of water. In total, 44,000 cusecs of water from the dam were discharged into the Maharana Pratap Sagar (Reservoir). This has led to a rise in the dam’s water level compared to the previous day, which was measured at 1,376 feet today.
According to official information, on the previous day, 40 out of 52 gates of the Shah Canal Barrage were opened to release water into the Beas River. Even today, between 28 to 30 gates of the Shah Canal Barrage remain open, allowing continuous discharge into the river.
The situation has been aggravated by recent cloudburst incidents in Himachal Pradesh, which have caused large amounts of debris and water to flow into the Beas River. This inflow has not only increased the river’s water volume but has also carried along large quantities of wood and other materials.
Disturbingly, despite the strong currents and warnings, some locals have been risking their lives by entering the river to collect wood from the flowing debris. The administration has urged residents of villages situated along the Beas River’s banks to stay away from the water and remain vigilant until the water levels recede.
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely as more rain is expected in the coming days, which could further impact water levels in the dam and the river.
