People living in downstream villages of the Karnali river, who were asked to remain vigilant after the sudden decrease in the river's water level, have been relieved
People living in downstream villages of the Karnali river, who were asked to remain vigilant after the sudden decrease in the river's water level, have been relieved as the water level increased almost to its normal state on Wednesday.
Local authorities assumed that the receding water level was caused by a blockade in Ning stream, a tributary of the Karnali river, in the north-west of Humla district headquarters Simkot due to heavy snowfall. Police officials sent to observe the site, however, are yet to reach there due to heavy snow measuring 10-12 feet. The recent snowfall in the area is said to be highest recorded in the past 26 years.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Keshab Adhikari said a helicopter put "standby" since Tuesday could not fly to the affected region even on Wednesday due to harsh weather. Though the perceived threat seems to have been averted, Adhikari said that one could not rest assured unless a technical team ascertains the cause.
Meanwhile, Deputy Superintendent of Police Krishna Bahadur Kunwar, quoting locals said the Ning region was covered in snow and that water levels in the river used to decrease owing to the snowfall in the past as well. “With the rains subsiding and sun coming up, we expect the river to return to its normal state,” Kunwar said.
10.12°C Kathmandu
