NAROWAL: The embankment of the Basantar rainwater drain was breached allegedly by the authorities and it submerged hundreds of acres of agricultural land and villages.

Due to heavy rains in India-held Kashmir and Shakargarh, Zafarwal and Narowal tehsils, the water level in Basantar had risen. After its embankment was breached near the village of Jasar, the floodwater entered Parana Wahla, Fassipur, Nangli and Doaba villages, inundating crops on hundreds of acres of land. In the village of Kotli Bajwa, the floodwater entered houses.

Irrigation EXEN Ali Raza said the Basantar embankment was not breached by the department but the residents of the Parana Wahla and other villages broke it themselves. He said strict action was being taken against those who breached the embankment.

On the other hand, Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Tayyab Khan said the embankment was not broken and it’s just a relief cut.

“India had blocked the outlet of Basantar. We made this cut for the people about three weeks back and it gave relief to the general public. Now water is flowing through fields before finally reaching the Ravi. There is no issue at all.”

Residents of the flood-affected areas protested against those who broke the embankment of Basantar, saying that due to poor planning, they had to face loss of life and property.

Published in Dawn, August 25th, 2026