News
Pong Dam Reaches Year’s Highest Level at 1,394.51 Feet
The situation remains dynamic and is being closely monitored.
Due to heavy rainfall in the Beas catchment area and continuous inflows from the Pandoh Dam, the Pong Dam reservoir in Kangra district rose to 1,394.51 feet on Thursday morning—this year’s highest level and the fifth consecutive day it has remained well above the danger mark of 1,390 feet.
According to Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) officials, the average inflow was 132,595 cusecs, while the actual inflow stood at 107,301 cusecs. To regulate rising water levels, 99,769 cusecs were released downstream, including 74,179 cusecs through spillways and 16,988 cusecs through turbines. The average outflow was recorded at 91,167 cusecs. Officials confirmed that the situation remains fluid and under close watch.
Crops Damaged Across 621 Hectares in Kangra
The continuous release of excess water has inundated low-lying areas of Indora and Fatehpur sub-divisions, damaging more than 621 hectares of paddy and maize fields. The Agriculture Department has estimated losses of ₹128.80 lakh.
Over 218 hectares of maize fields have been affected, with damages valued at ₹24.56 lakh, including 30 hectares where losses exceeded 33%. Paddy crops have borne the brunt, with 382.80 hectares submerged, causing an estimated loss of ₹95.70 lakh. Of this, nearly 239 hectares suffered more than 33% damage.
Officials said further assessment is underway, and a detailed report will be submitted to the state government for relief measures. Farmers in flood-prone areas have been advised to remain alert as further water release is possible.
Power Supply Disrupted in Mand Areas
Flooding in the Mand regions of Indora sub-division has disrupted electricity in several villages and settlements. Twenty-nine transformers and nearly 9–10 km of power lines have been damaged. Electricity board officials said repair work can only begin once water levels recede, as strong currents make field operations unsafe. With power supply interrupted, drinking water schemes have also been affected, compounding hardships for residents in flood-hit areas.
