Rivers above danger levels, flood threat looms over Jamshedpur

Pioneer News Service

Jamshedpur

Torrential rain has pushed up the water levels of the Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers in Jamshedpur, raising the threat of flooding in several low-lying and riverside areas of the city.

The water level of the Subarnarekha has risen to 120.64 metres, just 86 centimetres below the danger mark. The Kharkai, meanwhile, is flowing at 130.95 metres, 1.95 metres above its danger level.

The rising river levels, coupled with the release of water from nearby dams, have heightened the risk of flooding in low-lying areas of Bagbera, Jugsalai, Kadma and Mango.

The district administration has issued an alert for low-lying and riverside areas. Public announcements are being made to warn residents against going near river ghats, flood-prone areas and waterlogged locations. People have also been advised to take special care of children and prevent them from venturing into vulnerable areas.

The continuous rainfall has also increased the water level of the Chandil Dam. Following the rise in the reservoir level, 17 gates, including 13 radial gates, have been opened to release excess water.

The opening of the Chandil Dam gates, along with the release of water from the Byangbil Dam in Odisha, has added to the inflow into the river system. With continued rainfall in the upper catchment areas, pressure on the water levels of the Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers has increased.

The rise in the Kharkai’s water level has been particularly sharp. At 8 am on August 31, the river stood at 129.03 metres, just 3 centimetres above the danger mark, and its level had been showing a declining trend at the time.

However, rainfall in surrounding districts and increased water inflow subsequently changed the situation. The Kharkai has now risen to 130.95 metres, registering an increase of approximately 1.92 metres within a few hours.

The Subarnarekha has also recorded a significant rise. Its water level, which was 119.70 metres at 8 am, has climbed to 120.64 metres, an increase of around 94 centimetres.

With the Kharkai now flowing significantly above the danger level and both rivers continuing to rise, the administration has intensified monitoring of areas along the riverbanks and flood-prone zones.

Residents of vulnerable areas have been advised to move to higher and safer locations or designated shelters identified by the urban local bodies, if necessary. The administration has also urged people not to pay heed to rumours and to follow official advisories and instructions issued from time to time.