All Salal Dam gates opened as Chenab swells after heavy rain

All gates of the Salal Dam in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district were opened on Tuesday as continuous heavy rain caused the Chenab River and the reservoir to swell, prompting authorities to release excess water. According to agency reports, the Reasi region has been witnessing continuous rainfall for several hours, leading to a significant increase in inflows into the dam. The gates were opened to release excess water and regulate the reservoir level.

#WATCH | J&K | Reasi region has been experiencing heavy rainfall for the past several hours, leading to a significant increase in water inflow into the Chenab River and Salal Dam reservoir.

Amid the rising inflow, all gates of the Salal Dam have been opened to release excess… pic.twitter.com/n2Sac760UW

— ANI (@ANI) July 21, 2026

The controlled discharge from the dam caused a sharp rise in the Chenab River's water level and flow. Authorities urged people, particularly those living in low-lying areas and along the riverbanks, to remain vigilant and avoid venturing near the river.Officials said the situation is being closely monitored as persistent rainfall continues across the region.
Meanwhile, heavy rain also lashed Rajouri district from early Tuesday, prompting the district administration and Rajouri Police to issue advisories warning of possible flash floods, landslides, waterlogging and a rapid rise in river water levels.The district administration advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers, streams and flood-prone areas, and refrain from crossing flooded roads or bridges. People were urged to remain indoors unless travel was essential, follow weather updates and comply with official instructions.
Residents were also asked to immediately contact the local administration or emergency services in case of any emergency.Rajouri Police cautioned that continuous rainfall could lead to a sudden rise in river water levels."With heavy rainfall continuing in areas of Rajouri, there is apprehension that the water level in rivers will increase rapidly," the police said in an advisory.Authorities have urged residents across affected areas to remain alert and cooperate with local officials until the weather situation improves.