Reasi, Sep 15: The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has warned residents of Reasi district about fluctuations in the Chenab river discharge as reservoir silt flushing at the Salal Dam.

General Manager (Electrical) of Salal Power Station, Sanjay Kumar Jain, said the reservoir silt flushing commenced late Monday, following which the discharge in the Chenab river would rise and fluctuate.
The notice has been issued for residents of areas upstream of Salal Dam, including Dharan, Thanpal, Arnas, Sai, Lanjan, Narloo, Gari, Salmot and other villages, as well as areas downstream including Dalm, Gujjar Kothi, Siyad Baba, Bidda, Kachhi Khera, Talwara, Nambla, Vijaypur, Bara Dari, Patta, Kashi Patta, Jedhi, Panasa, Babber, Chumandian, Dera Baba Banda Bahadur, Seri and other adjoining areas.
NHPC has advised the public to remain away from the river during the silt-flushing operation, saying movement of people, vehicles and cattle or other animals into the river would not be permitted.
The notice further advises residents to take precautions and avoid approaching or going near the banks of the Chenab during the operation. Bathing and fishing in the river have also been prohibited.
NHPC said the discharge from Salal Dam would fluctuate during the process and cautioned the public against entering the river or undertaking activities in or around the watercourse.
The precautionary measures will remain relevant during the period of reservoir silt flushing, with authorities being asked to create public awareness in the affected areas. [KNT]