Authorities in Kangra have ordered urgent drainage measures after a massive accumulation of water upstream of the under-construction Riyund Khud bridge created a reservoir nearly one kilometre long, raising fears of downstream flooding. The blockage, caused by construction debris and heavy monsoon rainfall, has prompted the district administration to intervene.
SDM Inspects Site Amid Rising Concerns
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Kangra, Dr Anjali Garg, visited the bridge site on Saturday following complaints from local residents. She was accompanied by senior officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and representatives of the construction company executing the project.
The bridge is part of the Kangra-Shimla four-lane National Highway project and is in its final stage of completion. Officials informed Dr Garg that the installation of steel spans had been completed and only finishing work remained. The construction agency stated that heavy machinery used for launching the steel girders would be removed shortly, after which work to drain the accumulated water and restore the natural flow of the khud would commence.
Cause of the Blockage
According to officials, a large quantity of earth and construction material dumped in the khud during bridge construction, combined with heavy monsoon rainfall over the past few days, has obstructed the natural flow of water. The blockage has caused water to accumulate over a stretch of nearly one kilometre, creating a sizable reservoir upstream of the bridge.
The situation has been exacerbated by the continuous rain in the region, typical of the monsoon season, which has raised water levels significantly. Officials noted that the obstruction must be cleared urgently to prevent any sudden release of water that could cause damage downstream.
Residents Express Concern
Residents of nearby villages expressed concern that if heavy rainfall continues, the rising water level could trigger flooding in downstream areas, damaging houses, agricultural fields, roads and other public infrastructure. They urged the administration and NHAI to remove the obstruction immediately and restore the stream's natural course before the situation worsens.
Local farmers are particularly worried about potential damage to crops, as the area is primarily agricultural. Some residents reported that water has already started seeping into low-lying fields near the bridge.
Administration's Response
During the inspection, Dr Garg directed NHAI officials and the executing agency to begin immediate water drainage operations and ensure that the accumulated water is released safely without causing any environmental or structural damage. She emphasised that public safety must remain the top priority and instructed officials to closely monitor the site, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
The SDM also asked the executing agency to expedite the remaining bridge work and complete all pending activities without unnecessary delay while ensuring that adequate safety measures are in place.
"The administration is keeping a close watch on the situation and all necessary steps are being taken to prevent any flood-like emergency during the ongoing monsoon season," Dr Garg said. She assured residents that continuous monitoring of the water level and the progress of drainage operations will continue until the obstruction is completely cleared and the normal flow of the khud is restored.
Monitoring and Safety Measures
Authorities have set up a monitoring team to track water levels and drainage progress. Heavy machinery has been deployed to begin excavation of the blocked channel. Officials have also warned residents to stay alert and avoid approaching the affected area.
The NHAI has pledged to complete the remaining bridge work within a fortnight, weather permitting, and to ensure that no further construction debris enters the khud. The district administration has also instructed the local police and disaster management team to remain on standby.
With more rain forecast in the coming days, the administration is racing against time to avert a potential flood disaster. The situation remains tense, but officials are confident that prompt action will mitigate the risk.
