The Kangra district administration has imposed a comprehensive ban on accessing rivers, streams, waterfalls, dams, reservoirs, and other water bodies during the ongoing monsoon season. The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, aims to prevent accidents caused by flash floods, strong currents, and landslides. The restrictions took immediate effect and apply to both residents and tourists visiting the district.
Reason for the ban
Heavy rainfall during the monsoon often leads to a sudden rise in water levels in rivers and seasonal streams, increasing the risk of flash floods and swift currents. Deputy Commissioner Bairwa stated that these conditions also heighten the danger of slope failures. The precautionary measures are intended to prevent loss of life, as past incidents have shown the vulnerability of people near water bodies during the rainy season.
Details of restrictions
The administration has prohibited people from going near rivers, streams, nullahs, waterfalls, dams, reservoirs, or other water bodies during rainfall or immediately afterward. Crossing waterlogged roads, submerged bridges, culverts, or stretches affected by overflowing water is also banned. Additionally, recreational activities such as bathing, swimming, fishing, photography, and videography in rivers and water bodies are not allowed during the monsoon. Parents have been urged to keep children away from such vulnerable locations.
Enforcement and awareness measures
Hotel and homestay operators, tour operators, taxi drivers, and adventure tourism stakeholders have been directed to educate tourists about the dangers of going near swollen rivers and streams. All Sub-Divisional Magistrates, police officers, panchayati raj institutions, urban local bodies, and concerned departments have been instructed to widely publicize the restrictions, install warning signboards, and erect barricades at vulnerable locations. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), police, Home Guards, fire services, and other departments will remain on high alert throughout the monsoon season. Officials must immediately inform the District Emergency Operation Centre in case of a disaster or sudden rise in water levels. Strict action will be taken under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other applicable laws against violators.
