Situation grim but under control: Admn

Our Correspondent

Khanna/Machhiwara, August 18

People residing near the dhusi bundh on the Sutlej near Machhiwara were in panic seeing the rising water level in the river that was flowing way up the danger mark. In view of heavy rain and opening of Bhakra Dam floodgates, the flood threat looms large over people residing near the bundh.

The officials concerned said the situation was grim but under control. There was about 2,42,000 cusecs of water flowing in the Sutlej at the bundh around 11 am. However, water receded to 1,80,000 cusecs by 4 pm, still higher than the danger mark. The administration sounded alert in the areas along the river.

Samrala SDM Gitika Singh said the situation was under control. She, along with other officials, visited the dhusi bundh, Dhulewal and other key points, and directed the irrigation officials to strengthen the bundh.

The SDM said the administration was monitoring the situation round the clock and had taken all necessary steps. She admitted that the situation was grim but still the area was safe.

Meanwhile, low-lying areas in most villages of the Mand area were inundated. People were facing hardships in their routine work.

Farmer killed in roof collapse at Sherian

A farmer was killed when the roof of his house collapsed at Mand Sherian village during the heavy rain. The deceased has been identified as Anokh Singh (72).