Bhakra Dam Flood Alert: Massive Water Release Sparks Evacuations Across Punjab Villages

Bhakra Dam has released 75,000 cusecs of water after heavy rains, forcing evacuations across Punjab’s low-lying villages. Stay informed about the latest updates, the areas affected, the government response, and the safety measures in place.

Bhakra Dam Overflow: Thousands Urged to Evacuate as Water Levels Rise

Punjab is facing a fresh wave of flood danger after the Bhakra–Beas Management Board (BBMB) announced the release of nearly 75,000 cusecs of water from the Bhakra Dam due to relentless monsoon rains. The discharge has put villages along the Sutlej River under immediate threat, prompting evacuations in Ropar, Anandpur Sahib, and nearby areas.

Why Was the Water Released?

• The Bhakra Dam reservoir has touched nearly 1,678 feet, just 2 feet below the danger mark of 1,680 feet.

• To prevent overflow and structural stress, authorities were forced to open spillways and release excess water.

• Officials confirmed the decision was necessary to avoid uncontrolled flooding but warned downstream regions to remain on high alert.

Areas at Risk

Villages located along the Sutlej basin are the most vulnerable:

• Ropar district: Harsa Bela, Bela Ramgarh, Chandpur Bela

• Anandpur Sahib belt: Several low-lying villages placed under red alert

• Floodwaters are also straining embankments downstream towards Harike Headworks, where inflow has already surged past 3 lakh cusecs.

These areas are seeing mass evacuation drives, with residents urged to move to safer ground and relief camps.

Punjab Declared Disaster-Hit

• The Punjab government has declared the state “disaster-hit,” citing that over 1,200 villages are already submerged.

• This year’s intense monsoon flooding has affected over 3.5 lakh people and claimed over 30 lives.

• Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka districts are also facing widespread flooding due to rising Sutlej and Beas river levels.

Government & Army Response

• Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has been supervising evacuation efforts and relief arrangements.

• The Army, NDRF, and state disaster teams are reinforcing embankments, shifting families to safer areas, and setting up relief camps in schools and community halls.

• Volunteers and local residents have joined forces to strengthen flood defenses, particularly in Ropar and Anandpur Sahib.

Wider Impact Beyond Punjab

The Bhakra release and heavy monsoons have worsened flooding across northern India:

• Delhi has seen the Yamuna breach danger levels.

• Himachal Pradesh and J&K continue to battle landslides and overflowing rivers.

• Economists warn of potential agricultural losses as submerged farmlands risk damaging kharif crops.

Safety Advisory for Residents

Authorities have urged citizens to:

• Follow evacuation orders without delay.

• Avoid riverbanks and low-lying areas until water recedes.

• Move essential belongings and documents to higher ground.

• Please stay informed by following official government alerts rather than relying on rumors.

Final Word

The Bhakra Dam flood release highlights the fragility of northern India’s river basin during extreme monsoons. With thousands displaced and hundreds of villages inundated, the coming days will be crucial for relief and rehabilitation. For Punjab, this is not just a seasonal challenge but a reminder of the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures.

Also read:  Jammu Train Disruptions 2025: 65 Trains Cancelled, Diverted & Terminated Due to Heavy Rain & Floods