Kangra District Imposes Immediate Ban on Water Body Access
The Kangra district administration has issued a strict prohibition on residents and tourists from approaching rivers, streams, waterfalls, dams, reservoirs, and other water bodies during the ongoing monsoon season. The order, effective immediately, aims to prevent accidents caused by flash floods, strong currents, and landslides.
Deputy Commissioner Invokes Disaster Management Act
Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Hemraj Bairwa, issued the directive under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. He emphasized that heavy rainfall often leads to a sudden rise in water levels in rivers and seasonal streams, increasing the risk of flash floods, strong currents, and landslides. The restrictions serve as a precautionary measure to prevent loss of life.
Activities Prohibited During Monsoon
According to the order, residents, tourists, and visitors are advised not to visit rivers, streams, nullahs, waterfalls, dams, reservoirs, or any other water bodies during rainfall or immediately after. Crossing waterlogged roads, submerged bridges, culverts, or any stretch affected by overflowing water is also prohibited. The administration has banned bathing, swimming, fishing, photography, videography, and other recreational activities in rivers and water bodies during the monsoon. Parents are urged to keep children away from such vulnerable areas.
Stakeholders Directed to Inform Tourists
Bairwa has directed hotel and homestay operators, tour operators, taxi drivers, and adventure tourism stakeholders to inform tourists about the dangers of swollen rivers and streams during the rainy season. All Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), police authorities, Panchayati Raj institutions, urban local bodies, and concerned departments have been instructed to give wide publicity to the restrictions, install warning signboards, erect barricades at vulnerable spots, and take all necessary preventive measures.
Emergency Response and Legal Action
The DDMA, police, Home Guards, Fire Services, and other departments will remain on high alert throughout the monsoon. Officials have been directed to immediately inform the District Emergency Operation Centre in case of any disaster or sudden rise in water levels. Violations will invite legal action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other applicable laws. The DC warned that strict action will be taken against those found flouting the restrictions.
