Residents in Mandi’s Dharampur subdivision in Himachal Pradesh experienced relief today as authorities successfully drained a large artificial lake formed at the Parchhu bridge, easing flood risk to downstream villages initially threatened by the surge. The unexpected reservoir formed after torrential monsoon rains combined with illegal dumping of debris from a nearby highway construction site, blocking the natural flow of the Garsian Khad stream.
Local temples, cremation grounds and an irrigation pump house were submerged under rising waters . This raised alarms among villagers, who urged prompt action before lives and property were at risk. Following public pressure, the district administration directed a road-construction company working on the highway project to deploy heavy machinery to immediately begin draining water from the site. Officials reported that the company successfully released a substantial volume of water today, sharply reducing flood threats to downstream villages . During an on-site inspection, district authorities instructed the contractor to clear all debris within a week and ensure active drainage protocols continue . Plans were also unveiled to build protective embankments along the stream to prevent similar crises in future. Local civic leaders confirmed that the threat level had subsided following the water release. Affected residents expressed cautious optimism but pressed for sustained oversight to prevent recurrence.
At present, drainage operations are still underway under administrative supervision. Protective walls are being built, and debris clearance continues to restore the natural flow of the stream. Authorities have also established a monitoring regime and implemented 24/7 vigilance to prevent fresh accumulations of water or debris. Observers noted that this incident highlights broader concerns regarding infrastructure work in fragile hill zones. Unregulated dumping can mask as development yet trigger environmental hazards. Local leaders have urged stricter controls, real-time monitoring of construction activity, and the deployment of early warning systems along vulnerable waterways. While the immediate crisis has been defused, residents emphasise that long-term resilience requires more than reactive solutions.
Sustainable engineering safeguards—such as regulated runoff channels, insistence on environmental clearances, and community-based surveillance—are being advocated to protect lives and livelihoods in monsoon-prone catchments. The successful drainage of the Parchhu bridge artificial lake has eased immediate flood concerns. However, the episode underscores a need for stricter regulatory oversight and prompt action in ecologically sensitive hill regions. Continued vigilance and infrastructure safeguards will be vital to prevent future emergencies and secure community wellbeing.
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