Dehradun: Uttarakhand authorities have issued a flood alert as the Srinagar Dam, specifically the GVK dam on the Alaknanda River, released 3,000 cumecs of water today, on Friday, due to excessive rainfall in the upstream catchment areas.
The discharged water is expected to reach Rishikesh and Haridwar in the afternoon, potentially causing flood-like situations in low-lying regions.
Continuous rainfall in the upper Himalayan regions has led to a significant rise in water levels
The decision to release water comes as continuous rainfall in the upper Himalayan regions has led to a significant rise in water levels in the Alaknanda River. Local authorities have been closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that residents and pilgrims are informed about the risks.
Authorities urge caution; Uttarakhand police issues warnings
Speaking on the current situation, Srinagar DSP Anuj Kumar confirmed that the water level is rising due to heavy rains in the upper catchment areas. He stated, “Water is being released from the dam from time to time. The police are appealing to people to stay away from the Ganga ghats and areas prone to rising water levels.”
#WATCH | Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand | Srinagar DSP Anuj Kumar says, “The water level of the River is rising due to rainfall in the upper regions. Water is also being released from the dam from time to time. The police are appealing to people to stay away from the Ganga ghats and… pic.twitter.com/X9EoLBvc5r
— ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2025
In response to the increasing water flow, Uttarakhand Police have intensified safety measures, issuing precautionary announcements along the River Ganga’s banks. Residents and visitors have been urged to stay away from the ghats and avoid flood-prone locations in Haridwar and Rishikesh.
#WATCH | Uttarakhand Police makes precautionary announcements on the banks of River Ganga, requesting people to stay away from the ghats as there may be a sudden rise in the water level after water was released from the Srinagar dam. pic.twitter.com/8J7sPuUHEV
— ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2025
Uttarakhand disaster management issues alert
The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) has issued alerts to district magistrates, urging them to take immediate precautions to safeguard people living near riverbanks. The local administration has been advised to keep rescue operations and emergency measures ready, ensuring that any potential flooding is managed efficiently.
This water release comes as part of a routine process in Uttarakhand, particularly during the monsoon season, where reservoirs periodically discharge water to clear silt and maintain power plant efficiency. However, today’s release is directly linked to heavy rainfall, making the situation more unpredictable for downstream regions.
Impact on pilgrims and local residents
The release of dam water may impact pilgrims visiting Haridwar and Rishikesh, key religious destinations in Uttarakhand. Authorities have warned that the sudden rise in water levels could disrupt routine travel along the Ganga riverbanks, affecting both locals and tourists. Officials are ensuring continuous monitoring, with safety measures being strengthened.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor updates from authorities. Emergency response teams are on standby to manage any escalation in the situation. As rains continue, authorities will closely track water levels, issuing fresh advisories as needed.
