Pakistan is facing a worsening flood situation after India released large volumes of water into the Sutlej, Tawi, and Chenab rivers. Authorities have issued a Flood Alert across Punjab as water levels continue to rise dangerously, putting lives and property at risk.
The Ministry of Water Resources confirmed that India released water into the Sutlej and Chenab rivers without using the Indus Water Commission’s official channel. Instead, the information was shared through diplomatic means. Officials described this move as a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, further straining ties between the two countries.
According to officials, 28 departments have been alerted. Very high flood levels are expected in the Sutlej and Chenab rivers, particularly in Harike, Manawar Tawi, and Ferozepur. The Tawi River also poses a serious flooding risk in Jammu.
Flood control rooms and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab reported alarming inflows at several key points. At Head Marala, flows reached 538,000 cusecs. Khanki Headworks recorded 339,470 cusecs, Qadirabad 232,450 cusecs, Trimmu 355,744 cusecs, Balloki 117,655 cusecs, Sidhnai 193,470 cusecs, and Chiniot Bridge 108,343 cusecs. In Chiniot, the flow rose to 112,546 cusecs. At Qadirabad Barrage, inflows increased by 253,000 cusecs compared to earlier levels. The water level at Head Muhammad Wala reached 411 feet, signaling severe flood pressure.
The Sutlej River is also experiencing heavy inflows, with Sulemanki Headworks recording 122,736 cusecs and Islam Headworks 95,727 cusecs. Officials warned that downstream districts face high flood risks, especially with rainfall forecast until September 5.
PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said the Pakistan Army, civil administration, and other departments are on high alert. He assured that protection of citizens’ lives and property remains the top priority. The PDMA has issued a Flood Alert for both Sutlej and Chenab rivers, urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious. Forecasts of continuous rainfall through the week may worsen the situation, further swelling rivers and increasing the risk of embankment breaches.
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