Pahalgam: The Sheshnag Nallah in Pahalgam’s famous Betaab Valley crossed its highest-ever recorded flood level on Monday, triggering alarm among residents, tourists and authorities.
According to official data, the water level in the Nallah surged to 6.02 ft, breaching the previous highest flood mark of 5.68 ft. The recorded level is significantly above the flood alarm threshold of 4.59 ft and the danger level of 5.09 ft.
The unprecedented rise has sparked concerns of flash floods and possible damage downstream. Authorities have urged people to stay away from rivers and streams in the area.
Preliminary reports suggest that the sudden surge could be the result of a cloudburst or very heavy rainfall in the upper reaches of the Lidder Valley. Officials said monitoring has been intensified and emergency measures are being put in place.
Local residents said the water rose sharply within a short span of time, creating panic among those living close to the stream. “We have never seen the Sheshnag Nallah swell to this level,” said a resident of Pahalgam.
Tourists in Betaab Valley, one of Kashmir’s most visited destinations, were also cautioned against venturing near the swollen stream as authorities kept rescue teams on standby.
This year’s erratic rainfall has already led to flood concerns in several parts of Jammu & Kashmir, with experts warning of climate-linked extreme weather becoming more frequent.
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