The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has raised serious concerns about illegal excavation activities near the Doodganga Nallah embankment, a critical flood control structure in Kashmir. The group reported that unauthorized digging up to five feet deep was carried out in the area near the Channapora Bridge crossing during the night, according to officials.

Threat to Embankment Stability

EPG warned that such excavation could compromise the embankment’s structural integrity, particularly during periods of high flood discharge. The group emphasized that the site is government land under the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department, and any unauthorized activity on it is a grave issue.

According to EPG, the excavation could weaken the embankment’s stability and increase the risk of structural failure during heavy rainfall or flooding. This could lead to catastrophic consequences for nearby communities, including potential flooding and damage to infrastructure.

During discussions with the Superintending Engineer, Flood Control Budgam, and the Executive Engineer I&FC Narbal, EPG highlighted the potential repercussions of the illegal work. Officials assured that action would be taken to halt the excavation and prevent further encroachments on government land.

Community and Official Response

Residents of the area reportedly intervened to stop the excavation, according to EPG. The group has also called on the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Anshul Garg, to issue directions to prevent such illegal activities and ensure the embankment’s long-term stability.

EPG urged authorities to not only restore the embankment to its original state but also strengthen it to provide long-term protection against floods. The group stressed that any activity that jeopardizes the embankment’s safety must be addressed immediately.

The Doodganga Nallah embankment is a vital flood control measure in the region, designed to manage water flow and prevent flooding in downstream areas. Any damage to the structure could have far-reaching implications for flood management in the region.

Forward-Looking Implications

Experts warn that if the embankment’s integrity is compromised, the risk of flooding in nearby areas could increase significantly. This could lead to displacement of residents, damage to property, and disruption of essential services such as water supply and transportation.

According to recent studies, the Doodganga Nallah embankment was constructed to handle floodwaters from the Jhelum River basin, a region prone to monsoon-induced flooding. Any structural weakness could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events.

EPG has called for immediate action to secure the site and conduct an independent assessment of the damage caused by the illegal excavation. The group also emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of laws to prevent unauthorized activities on government land.

Authorities have been given a deadline to submit a report on the status of the embankment and the measures taken to prevent further encroachments. The Divisional Commissioner is expected to issue formal directives in the coming days.

Residents in the area have expressed concern over the potential impact of the excavation on their safety and livelihoods. Many are calling for transparency in the handling of the situation and assurance that the embankment will be restored to its original condition.