In Budgam, Kashmir, nearly 200 families were rescued on Thursday, September 4, 2025, after the Jhelum River overflowed its banks, causing severe flooding. The breach occurred in the early hours near Zoonipora village, leading to the inundation of adjacent areas. Villages such as Shalina, Rakh Shalina, and Baghi Shakirshah were particularly affected, prompting the urgent evacuation of residents to designated rescue centers and safer locations.
The rescue operations were jointly carried out by Srinagar Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and River Police, focusing on the most vulnerable regions of the district to ensure the safety of the affected citizens. SSP SDRF Masroor Ahmad Mir reported that approximately 600 to 650 civilians were moved to secure locations from the flooded areas in South Kashmir. The Srinagar district administration also issued an evacuation advisory for residents of Lasjan, Soiteng, Nowgam, Vyethpora, Golpora, Padshahibagh, and Mehjoornagar, urging them to move to safer places as a precautionary measure.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the flood-affected areas, especially Lasjan, to assess the situation. He criticized previous governments for their inadequate flood management strategies following the devastating 2014 floods, suggesting that proactive measures could have prevented the current crisis. Abdullah assured the public that his government is committed to taking necessary steps to prevent future floods and intends to request a comprehensive loss assessment from Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the affected areas.
The district administration has established relief centers to accommodate evacuees and has appointed nodal officers from both the district administration and the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to provide assistance. Authorities made announcements through local committees, mosques, and local revenue and police officials. Srinagar Police have also set up 24/7 helplines, advising the public to report any hazards and avoid unnecessary travel while educational institutions remain closed.
While the water level in areas downstream of the Jhelum has started to recede since Thursday morning, the river is still flowing above the danger mark at Sangam in South Kashmir and Ram Munshi Bagh. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg stated that approximately 9,000 residents were evacuated following the breach. Despite the receding water levels, authorities emphasize the need for continued caution, as many low-lying areas remain waterlogged, and embankments are being closely monitored. Relief and restoration efforts are ongoing alongside rescue operations in the affected districts.
The incident has brought back memories of the 2014 floods, prompting residents in low-lying areas to park their vehicles on highways, flyovers, and bridges as a precaution.
