Kashmir Faces Heavy Rainfall: Schools Closed, High Alert Issued

Srinagar, Sep 3 (PTI) - Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a meeting on Wednesday to evaluate the repercussions of continuous rainfall, which has caused rivers and streams to rise across the Union Territory.

The authorities have declared the closure of schools and colleges throughout the Kashmir Valley for the day, as the weather department predicts additional rainfall over the next 24 hours.

In a post on X, the Chief Minister’s office stated that Abdullah presided over a meeting this morning to appraise the situation.

Abdullah has instructed the administration to enhance the ground response, clear waterlogged areas, protect essential services, conduct timely evacuations in critical zones, and provide immediate relief.

"Hon’ble Ministers @JavedRanaa and @satishsharmajnk briefed on the situation in Jammu, while Hon’ble Minister @sakinaitoo and Advisor to the CM @nasirsogami provided updates on the situation in Kashmir. The Chief Minister urged people to follow advisories, avoid vulnerable areas, and stay safe," the CM’s office communicated.

Despite the Jhelum river and its tributaries flowing below the danger threshold, water levels in parts of south and central Kashmir, including Srinagar, have risen significantly since the rains began on Tuesday.

The Irrigation and Flood Control Department has indicated that water gauges are rising and may increase further due to ongoing precipitation.

"All relevant authorities are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. The public is cautioned not to approach water bodies and to exercise caution. All officers assigned to flood duties must immediately report to their posts," the department advised in a post on X.

The intense rain over the past 24 hours has also resulted in the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) due to landslides, falling rocks, and waterlogging at various locations.

Officials have declared the highway closed to all types of vehicles.

As a precaution, all educational institutions throughout the Kashmir division will remain closed for the day.

Authorities have stated, "Considering the adverse weather conditions, schools and colleges across the Kashmir division will be closed today, on 03.09.2025."

Various examinations scheduled for Wednesday at Kashmir University and other universities in the valley have also been postponed.

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