Land sinking in Arwani forces families to evacuate homes

August 28, 2025 by News Desk

Representational Image

Suhail Dar

Panic gripped residents of Dar Mohalla in Arwani village of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Thursday after a portion of land sank near the banks of river Weshav, a day after the water levels in the river and its tributaries began to recede following days of continuous rise.

Locals told The Kashmiriyat that around Thursday afternoon, a portion of the riverbed suddenly gave in, creating deep cracks and subsidence in the adjoining land.

Several houses are situated close to the affected area, forcing at least three families to shift their belongings and evacuate their homes out of fear.

Residents said the sinking has caused cracks in many houses, sparking concerns about the stability of the entire locality. “We have been living here for generations. Since 1946, we have been pleading with authorities to fix the banks of the river, but nothing has been done,” a resident said, adding that the situation has now become a threat to their lives and property.

The incident has revived fears of large-scale damage in the locality, as the loose soil and weakened embankments of the Jhelum continue to pose a risk.

Locals believe the recent rise in water levels has worsened the vulnerability of the riverbanks, making the area more prone to such incidents.

Appealing for urgent intervention, the residents urged the Chief Minister to personally address the issue. “This is not just about one or two houses. If the banks are not reinforced, a larger part of our mohalla could sink,” another resident warned.

Officials from the revenue and disaster management departments have been informed and are likely to carry out an on-ground inspection in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the families living close to the site continue to spend nights in fear, uncertain about the safety of their homes.