Pong Dam’s Rising Waters: Kangra Faces Looming Flood Threat
Residents of Mand area in Kangra district are gripped by fear as Pong Dam’s water level surges past the critical floodgate mark. The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), however, has yet to issue a water release order.
This inaction has sparked widespread panic, especially given the devastating floods that ravaged the region in 2023. Locals vividly recall the destruction and loss, fueling their anxiety.
Demands for a pre-emptive water release are growing louder. Residents are threatening legal action if the BBMB continues its inaction, citing the potential for catastrophic consequences.
Authorities have appealed to the BBMB to release water at a controlled, lower level, to mitigate the risk of flooding. However, the delay remains a major concern.
The situation underscores the urgent need for proactive flood management strategies in the region. The BBMB’s response, or lack thereof, will have far-reaching consequences for the lives and livelihoods of thousands. This incident highlights the vulnerability of communities living downstream of large dams and the critical role of timely decision-making in disaster preparedness.
