MIRPUR (Kashmir English): In light of the expected heavy monsoon rains, authorities have imposed Section 144 in Mangla Dam, banning the operation of all types of passenger boats. The decision was made by Additional Deputy Commissioner General Raja Umar Tariq Khan following warnings from the Meteorological Department about potential flooding in rivers and streams.
According to details, the Additional Deputy Commissioner stated that the ban was enforced due to the lack of safety SOPs and facilities in passenger boats. It has been observed that proper safety measures to protect lives are often not followed, and there have been multiple complaints of overloading on these boats.
These conditions create a constant threat of major accidents, which could lead to the loss of precious human lives. A committee has already been formed to ensure the implementation of full SOPs for passenger boats, and it is currently preparing related recommendations. Until then, to avoid any incidents, a complete ban has been imposed on all types of passenger boats in Mangla Dam under Section 144.
If anyone is found violating this ban, they will face strict legal action.
As per the official order, no individual or group is allowed to travel or operate passenger boats in Mangla Dam. Anyone found violating the restriction in Mangla Dam will face legal action under Section 188 of the Azad Penal Code.
The administration has urged the public, especially the youth, to fully cooperate during this time to avoid any untoward incidents. The ban is temporary but necessary until the situation stabilises and safety compliance is ensured.
Meanwhile, The Neelum Valley administration has imposed Section 144 on the banks of the Neelum River as a precautionary measure against potential floods caused by monsoon rains.
District Magistrate Nadeem Ahmed Janjua has issued a directive advising tourists or visitors to avoid visiting the riverbanks as a precautionary measure.
