Pathankot, Punjab: Heavy and continuous rainfall in the neighboring states of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh has caused a significant rise in the water levels of the Ujh and Ravi rivers, leading to flooding in several villages near the India-Pakistan border in Pathankot district. The Pathankot district administration has taken swift action, declaring a holiday for all educational institutions in the district on August 25 to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The incessant rains, which began Saturday night, have led to a critical situation in the region. The increased water flow in the Ujh and Ravi rivers, as well as several seasonal rivulets, has inundated low-lying areas, severely affecting communities situated along the Indo-Pak border.
Pathankot Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal confirmed the holiday declaration, stating in an official order, “Keeping in mind the continuous rains in Pathankot district, a holiday is declared in all government/non-government schools, colleges and other educational institutions of Pathankot district on August 25.”
To assess the on-ground situation and provide reassurance to the affected residents, Punjab Cabinet minister Lal Chand Kataruchak visited the impacted areas on Sunday. He assured the villagers that the state government is committed to providing compensation for any losses incurred due to the floods.
The district authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the heavy flow of water from the upstream regions continues to pose a threat to the villages along the border, prompting residents and officials to remain on high alert.