Six Bansagar Dam gates opened in Shahdol; six people stranded on an island in Sukhad River; Jaitpur-Chhattisgarh route closed
The situation in Shahdol district deteriorated on Sunday following heavy rains and the release of water from the Bansagar Dam. The opening of six gates caused river water levels to rise rapidly, while continuous rainfall in the Jaitpur area caused rivers and streams to swell. Six people who had gone fishing in the Sukhad River became stranded on an island as the water level suddenly surged. The administration has successfully rescued four individuals, while an SDRF operation is underway to rescue the remaining two.
Meanwhile, the major route connecting Jaitpur to Chhattisgarh has been closed due to the strong flow of water. The administration has strictly advised people to avoid going near rivers, streams, and causeways. Bansagar Dam 99% Full
The water level in the Bansagar Dam has reached approximately 99% of its capacity. Following the rise in water levels, six gates were opened on Sunday to release water. This release caused a sudden surge in the water level of the Sukhad River, which flows downstream from the dam. At that time, six people were fishing in the river. The sudden rise in water trapped them on an island in the middle of the river; within moments, they were surrounded by a strong current, making it impossible for them to get out.
Four rescued; SDRF operation continues for two others
Upon receiving information about the incident, district administration and police teams rushed to the site. A Home Guard rescue team was also dispatched from Shahdol, and the SDRF was called in to assist with the rescue operation.
According to Sub-Divisional Officer (Revenue) Archana Mishra, four people have been safely rescued during the operation. Efforts to rescue the remaining two individuals are ongoing with the assistance of the SDRF. Rivers and streams overflow in Jaitpur; contact with several villages cut off
Heavy rainfall in the Jaitpur area since early Sunday morning has caused water levels in several rivers and streams to rise. Consequently, connectivity between some villages and the headquarters has been disrupted. Water began flowing over the bridge across the Kunnuk River near Rasmohni, leading to the suspension of traffic on this route from the morning itself. This route connects Rasmohni to Bhatia—via Amaha and Bargama—and extends further into Chhattisgarh.
Similarly, strong currents are flowing over the causeway of a small river on the Bokramar-Bhatia route, where traffic has also been halted. Police deployed on both sides of the bridge.
Anticipating the risk of vehicles or individuals being swept away by the strong currents, the police have deployed personnel on both sides of the bridge. Jaitpur Station In-charge Sameer Khan has appealed to the public not to attempt crossing roads or bridges amidst the swift water flow. The administration has advised people to avoid going near rivers, streams, and causeways unnecessarily and to stay in safe locations. Water levels likely to rise in low-lying areas.
With the opening of six gates at the Bansagar Dam and continuous rainfall, water levels are expected to rise further in the district’s low-lying areas. The administration has urged people to remain alert. Villagers living along riverbanks, in particular, have been advised to exercise caution due to the possibility of sudden fluctuations in water levels.
