Jammu Kashmir Flood Alert: Water will be released into Chenab river from Salal and Baglihar dams, high alert issued till July 26; People in coastal areas should be careful

A major administrative and security related warning has come out amid continuous rains in the hilly areas of Jammu and Kashmir. In view of the rising water level of Chenab River, the administration has issued a comprehensive high alert till July 26, 2026. According to officials, the water level in the reservoirs of the region’s two most prominent hydroelectric projects—Salal Hydroelectric Power Station (Salal Dam) and Baglihar Hydroelectric Project (Baglihar Dam)—is approaching the danger mark. To protect the dams and control the excess water, it has been decided to release a large amount of water into the Chenab River, which may cause flood-like conditions in the lower and coastal areas of the river. Danger will increase from Salal and Baglihar dams: Administrative Guidelines The administration and National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) have jointly issued strict guidelines for civil safety: Strict blockade till July 26: People of villages, towns and settlements located on the banks of Chenab river have been given strict instructions not to go near the river. There will be a complete ban on any type of human activity in the river area till 26 July 2026. Restrictions on cattle and boats: Herders are prohibited from taking their cattle (cows, buffaloes, goats) near the river. Also, local sailors and fishermen have also been warned not to enter the water during this period. Process of opening flush gates: At the time of opening the flush gates of dams, the flow of water will suddenly become very fast. This can lead to rapid erosion along the river banks, hence families living in low-lying areas have been advised to shift to safer places. These districts and areas will be affected the most. The flow area of ​​Chenab River passes through many important districts of Jammu and Kashmir. This alert will have a direct impact on the following areas: Ramban and Doda: Due to the release of water from Baglihar Dam, the risk of landslides and waterlogging has increased on the river bank roads of these hilly districts. Reasi: Salal Dam is located in this district, hence the maximum impact of the alert is being seen in the villages downstream of the dam. Akhnoor and Jammu: When the Chenab river enters the plains, the water level rises rapidly on the ghats of Akhnoor. Local police and SDRF teams have been deployed here for round-the-clock surveillance. Emergency preparedness and security alert District administration is fully prepared to deal with any possible flood situation: SDRF and Police on high alert: Teams of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police have been deployed at sensitive places with life-jackets, boats and other rescue equipment. Control Rooms established: Emergency Control Rooms working 24/7 have been activated at the district headquarters for any emergency situation or latest information about water level. Appeal to common citizens: The administration has appealed to the people not to panic, but has also made it clear that ignoring the safety rules can prove costly. Till the discharge of water from the dams becomes normal and the July 26 deadline does not reach, it is prudent to maintain a safe distance from the river.