Encroachments on Dardasun Nallah in Kralpora Raise Flood Concerns; Irrigation Department Accused of Inaction

Kralpora, Kupwara, October 23: Growing concerns have emerged among residents of Dardasun Kralpora in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district over alleged encroachments along Dardasun Nallah, with locals claiming that unauthorised constructions have significantly affected the natural width and flow of the water channel.
Residents have accused the Irrigation and Flood Control Department of failing to take timely action against the alleged encroachments, warning that the narrowing of the nallah could increase the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall and cloudbursts.
A delegation from Dardasun expressed serious concern over the situation, stating that the nallah originates in the Dardasun area and flows towards Kralpora, where it joins Nallah Hud. The water channel, locally known as Dardasun Nallah, is considered an important part of the area’s natural drainage system.
According to the delegation, several portions of the nallah have allegedly been encroached upon by individuals, resulting in a reduction of its natural width and raising concerns about the smooth passage of water, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
Alleged Encroachments in Malik and Pair Mohallas
The delegation alleged that several residential houses and other structures have been constructed along the banks of Dardasun Nallah, particularly in and around Malik Mohalla and Pair Mohalla.
Locals claimed that these constructions have affected the original boundaries and width of the water channel. They further alleged that the concerned department has failed to conduct an effective inspection or take necessary measures to identify and remove the alleged encroachments.
Residents said that the situation could become dangerous during heavy rainfall, when a large volume of water flows down from the surrounding mountainous areas.
They warned that any obstruction in the natural drainage system could increase water pressure and potentially expose nearby residential areas to flooding.
The delegation maintained that protecting the natural width of the nallah is essential not only for the residents of the immediate locality but also for the safety of the wider area.
Repeated Complaints, but No Action Alleged
The delegation stated that the matter had been brought to the notice of the Irrigation and Flood Control Division Kupwara on several occasions.
According to the residents, they had requested the department to inspect the nallah, identify illegal encroachments and take appropriate action to restore its original width.
They also urged the authorities to prevent further construction along the water channel and ensure that its natural flow remains unobstructed.
However, the delegation alleged that despite repeated complaints, no concrete action had been taken so far.
Residents expressed disappointment over what they described as the department’s continued silence, stating that issues involving natural water channels require timely intervention rather than waiting for a disaster to occur.
They said the department should verify the actual boundaries of the nallah through official records and determine whether the structures along its banks violate applicable regulations.
Narrowing of Nallah Could Increase Flood Risks
Residents of Dardasun Kralpora have expressed apprehension that the alleged reduction in the width of the nallah could create serious difficulties during the rainy season.
They pointed out that heavy rainfall and sudden cloudbursts can lead to a rapid rise in water levels, particularly in areas connected to mountain streams and natural drainage channels.
According to the locals, if the nallah is unable to accommodate the increased volume of water due to obstructions or reduced width, nearby residential areas could face potential flooding.
They stressed that preventive measures are necessary to minimise the possibility of damage to houses, agricultural land and other properties.
The delegation urged the authorities to identify vulnerable stretches of the nallah and undertake a technical inspection to assess the extent of the alleged encroachments and their possible impact on water flow.
Demand for Immediate Intervention by Higher Authorities
The delegation has appealed to Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and the District Administration Kupwara to intervene in the matter and ensure that the issue is addressed without further delay.
The residents demanded that a special team from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department visit Dardasun Kralpora and conduct a detailed inspection of the nallah.
They called for the identification of structures allegedly constructed within the nallah’s boundaries and sought action against illegal encroachments in accordance with the law.
The delegation further demanded that the department restore the original width of the water channel as per official records and take necessary measures to ensure the uninterrupted flow of water.
Locals said that the protection of natural drainage channels should be treated as a priority, particularly in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall and sudden floods.
Executive Engineer Could Not Be Contacted
Meanwhile, an attempt was made by the correspondent to obtain the official version of the Irrigation and Flood Control Division Kupwara regarding the allegations.
The Executive Engineer of the department was contacted over the phone for clarification and details about the action taken in the matter. However, the call was not answered, and his response could not be obtained.
The department’s version will be incorporated once it becomes available.
Residents Seek Restoration of Nallah’s Original Width
The residents of Dardasun Kralpora have reiterated their demand for immediate action to address the alleged encroachments and restore the natural width of Dardasun Nallah.
They said that the issue should not be ignored until a major incident occurs, adding that timely intervention could help prevent potential damage during the rainy season.
The delegation urged the concerned authorities to conduct an on-site inspection, verify the nallah’s boundaries through official records, remove illegal encroachments wherever established and ensure that no further unauthorised construction takes place along its banks.
The residents have appealed for urgent administrative intervention, stating that safeguarding Dardasun Nallah and maintaining its natural flow is essential for protecting the lives, property and safety of the people living in the surrounding areas.