Authorities in Mohali, Panchkula, and Chandigarh have issued a flood alert as heavy rainfall has led to a sharp rise in the water level of the Ghaggar river and prompted the opening of Sukhna Lake’s floodgates. The situation remains critical as officials work to manage the crisis and protect vulnerable communities.
Ghaggar River Poses Threat to Mohali Villages
The Ghaggar river, which originates in Himachal Pradesh and flows through Punjab, has crossed a critical water discharge level. Early on Friday, the river’s water flow was recorded at over 70,000 cusecs, triggering a high alert for nine villages along its banks in Mohali’s Dera Bassi district. Villages like Tiwana, Khajoor Mandi, Sadhanpur, and Mirpur are on high alert, with local police, drainage, and revenue department teams deployed. Dera Bassi SDM Amit Kumar stated that while “everything is under control” for now, the administration is closely monitoring the situation. A key concern is the Dehar-Alamgir-Tiwana link embankment, which had a major breach during last year’s floods, causing extensive damage to farmland. Many of these villages are still recovering from the flood damage, with large deposits of silt and sand on their fields.
Sukhna Lake Breaches Danger Mark
In Chandigarh, the water level of Sukhna Lake breached the danger mark of 1,163 feet overnight, leading the UT Engineering Department to open two of its three floodgates early this morning. This marks the sixth time this monsoon season that the gates have been opened, a testament to the intensity of the recent rainfall. The department has established a 24/7 control room and is using CCTV surveillance to coordinate with officials in Mohali and Panchkula to manage the water flow effectively.
Road Collapse and Disruption in Panchkula
The heavy rainfall has also caused significant damage in Panchkula. In Khatouli village near Barwala, a section of the road adjoining a local bridge collapsed. The intense water flow beneath and around the bridge eroded the soil, causing the road to cave in. The collapse has severely disrupted travel for local villagers, cutting off access to the area. Authorities are currently assessing the damage and have advised residents to avoid the affected route until repairs can be made.
Residents in all low-lying and riverbank areas of the tricity are urged to remain vigilant and follow official advisories from their respective district administrations.