The cracks measuring three to five feet can be seen on the ground around the lake. The pebbles and sand mixed soil is constantly falling down from the nearby mountain, apparently loosened due to the earthquake and continuous jolts.

After carrying out an on-site inspection of the lake, Director at Department of Hydrology and Meteorology Dr Rishi Ram Sharma said the cracks have appeared around the lake because of the loose soil. “There is no reason to be scared just because the pebbles and soil are falling down,” said Sharma, “There is no risk of bursting as the lower portion of the lake is strong.”

In 1997, the water level of the lake was lowered by draining out the water through siphon pipes in order to reduce the risk of outburst after threats were felt. But no damage was seen in the area from where the water was drained out. “There could be been problem if the canal region had been affected,” said Shrama. “But we have adopted special vigilance considering the possible threats.”

The department on Saturday installed early warning systems to alert the people about the imminent risk of flooding in the downstream settlements.

(Photos and text by Abdullah Miya)