HP Lahaul villagers worried as ChanderBhagha river lake expands
Shimla/Keylong, July 4
The villagers of the picturesque Lahaul Valley in Lahaul & Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh have expressed concern over the expanding size of the lake in ChanderBhagha river. Recent floods in Jahalma Nalla have caused the area under the lake to expand, also submerging fields and apple orchards along the riverbanks, they informed. The situation is further aggravated by the accelerating rate of glacier melting on the snowy hills, resulting in flood-like conditions throughout the valley.
As per reports from the ground the rising temperatures have contributed to the increased melting of glaciers, causing water levels to surge in several Nallas, including Nain Gahar, Madgran, Mayad valley, and Jahlma nalla of the Pattan valley. These incessant floods have not only wreaked havoc on the villages but have also disrupted the repair work of vital ‘Khools’ in the region.
Local residents, including villagers Vivek, Rahul, Rajesh, and Ranveer, expressed their distress, highlighting the ongoing flooding in the nallas, which has hindered repair efforts for the damaged ‘Khools.’ They reported that the destructive force of the floods continued unabated on Monday, leaving them deeply concerned for the future days.
Also read:Melting Snow Triggers Sudden Rise in Chandrabhaga River; Lahaul Farmers Suffer Losses
In response to the situation, SDM Udaipur Keshav Ram assured the public that the administration is closely monitoring the evolving scenario. Eight farmers from Jobrang village have already suffered substantial losses due to the flooding in Jahlma nullah and the blockage of the Chandrabhaga river. Among those affected are Sher Singh, Sita Ram, Om Prakash, Prem Lal, Pritam Singh, Brij Lal, Prem Das, and Deepak, who collectively estimate a loss of Rs 1, 80,000. The Agriculture Department is currently assessing the total damage inflicted on the crops.
The local administration has issued a warning to travelers, urging them to gather all necessary information before venturing into Lahaul Valley. It is advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the changing conditions in the region.
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