Govt sits on encroachment of Jhelum embankments

Despite court directions, authorities have failed to remove encroachments from embankments of river Jhelum in the summer capital.

On May 5, the High Court had underscored the need to restore Jhelum to its original width. However, authorities have failed to take measures for removal of encroachments on the river banks.

Encroachments dot the river embankments at various places in the summer capital. At Pandrethan, Chattabal and Qamarwari and its adjoining areas, many hutments have come up on the river banks. “These hutments not only affect aesthetic beauty of Jhelum but also weaken its embankments. In case of rise in the river’s water level, there is high risk that adjoining habitations can be submerged,” said an environmentalist.

Though the government in 2005 had launched a beautification drive of Jhelum banks on the three km stretch, from Shivpora to Dubji Ghat (Maisuma), authorities have failed to extend it to other areas of the river.

Originating from Verinag in south Kashmir, Jhelum spans over 175 sq Kms— meandering in a serpentine way from south to north Kashmir via Srinagar. “It seems authorities have not learnt any lessons from last year’s devastating floods. The authorities are sitting on removal of these encroachments and increasing Jhelum’s carrying capacity,” residents of Pandrethan said.