Jahangir Sofi
Srinagar, Dec 17: With dwindling water levels threatening Srinagar’s iconic houseboats, authorities at the Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FC) have operationalised the Chattabal Weir to maintain adequate levels in the river Jhelum to keep houseboats afloat.
The I&FC officials said that due to the precipitation deficit in the valley, the water level in the water bodies had reduced, prompting them to operationalise the Chatabal Weir to keep houseboats afloat.
Since its operationalization, the water level in Jhelum has risen from 1.23 to 2.9 Ft, an official said. “This is an annual routine to maintain water levels, but this year’s dry spell has made the situation more urgent.”
He expressed optimism about receiving much-needed precipitation in the coming weeks.
Kashmir Valley is grappling with a concerning decline in water levels across its rivers, springs and other water bodies due to the ongoing dry spell and insufficient precipitation.
Experts and officials have expressed concerns over the long-term impacts on drinking water, irrigation and the valley’s overall ecosystem.
The officials report a stable drinking water supply in the region, saying this is primarily due to reduced seasonal demand. However, the lack of significant precipitation continues to pose a long-term challenge, with authorities stressing the need for immediate rainfall and snowfall to recharge water bodies.
As per the Kashmir Houseboat Association, currently, there are around 86 houseboats in the river Jhelum from Old Zero Bridge to the Foot Bridge. However, several decades ago, the river boasted over 245 houseboats, they said.
While the operationalisation of the Chatabal Weir has been welcomed by locals, the association has expressed dissatisfaction over its ‘incomplete’ capacity. “All the required planks need to be installed to raise the water level to the desired point. Once achieved, the authorities can adjust for the movement of Shikaras,” it said.
Locals said the Chatabal Weir is over 100 years old and was constructed by British engineers between 1903-1907 in the valley to maintain the water level of the river.
