Pulwama, Mar 13: The Jammu and Kashmir government has initiated a river morphology and feasibility study for the comprehensive flood mitigation of the Jhelum.
The information was provided by the Minister In-Charge, Jal Shakti Department, in response to an unstarred question (A.Q No. 707) tabled by MLA Pampore, retired Justice Hasnain Masoodi in the legislative assembly.
The Minister stated that the study, undertaken under the Jhelum and Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP), covers the entire length of the Jhelum River, from Verinag to Uri.
He further mentioned that the study is currently ongoing, and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be prepared based on its final recommendations.
The Minister also confirmed that the World Bank-sponsored JTFRP has been extended until August 31, 2026.
Addressing concerns about flood risks in Pampore, the Minister clarified that while the town does not face a significant threat from low- or moderate-magnitude floods, extreme events like the 2014 floods could result in the inundation of low-lying areas due to overtopping of riverbanks.
He added that various flood protection measures have been taken to strengthen embankments and safeguard residents.
A flood protection project under FMP Phase-II (Part A) has been completed on the right side of the Jhelum at Khankahbagh, while another project at Zoonipora is currently under execution and is expected to be completed in the next financial year.
The Minister stated that the embankments from Latribal to Frestalbal are stable, requiring no further strengthening.
