JK News Today

August 7, Jammu: Heavy rainfall in the Jammu area has resulted in significant waterlogging in several low-lying areas, causing widespread disruption and damage to public and private property. The downpour, which lasted about four to five hours in the early morning, led to an overflow of rainwater in drains and lanes, with water inundating many houses and affecting the daily lives of residents.

Residents of affected areas have expressed their distress over the situation, highlighting the damage to their homes and belongings. “The water level rose rapidly, entering our house and damaging furniture and electrical appliances. It was unexpected and frightening,” said Ilyas Latief, a resident of one of the worst-hit neighborhoods. Many families are now facing the arduous task of cleaning up and assessing the damage to their properties.

The inadequate drainage system in Jammu, which is on the path to becoming a Smart City, has been a significant concern for residents. The Municipal Corporation of Jammu is being urged to address these issues to prevent similar occurrences in the future. “Every year, we face the same issue during the monsoon season. The authorities need to take more proactive measures to improve the drainage system,” said Manvi Verma, another affected resident. The poor state of the drainage infrastructure highlights the urgent need for municipal intervention and long-term planning to ensure the city can cope with heavy rains.

Bahu Plaza Chowk in Jammu continues to suffer from severe waterlogging every time it rains, causing significant disruptions and frustrations for both residents and commuters. The inadequate drainage system is unable to handle even moderate rainfall, resulting in the rapid accumulation of water on the roads. This ongoing issue underscores the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, especially as Jammu aims to develop into a Smart City. The waterlogging not only disrupts daily life but also poses safety risks, with vehicles struggling to navigate the flooded roads and pedestrians facing hazardous conditions. Residents have repeatedly called for better urban planning and upgraded drainage systems to address this persistent problem.

The heavy rainfall has also caused a significant drop in temperature, bringing a brief respite from the recent heatwave. The meteorological department has reported a sharp fall in temperature following the rains, providing some relief to the residents of Jammu. However, the weather office has also issued warnings for more rain in the coming days, urging residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions.

Local authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to stay indoors and avoid venturing out unless necessary. They are also urging people to keep distance from canals and rivers. Meanwhile, residents hope for a quick recovery and a more robust response to prevent similar incidents in the years to come.