Pakistan is bracing for worsening floods as India continues to release massive amounts of water into key rivers, raising alarm levels across Punjab. The Sutlej, Chenab, and Tawi rivers are now at or near “very high flood” levels, according to officials, prompting emergency preparations in multiple districts.
Rising Tensions Over Indus Waters
The Ministry of Water Resources confirmed that India discharged large volumes of water into the Sutlej and Chenab without going through the Indus Water Commission, instead informing Pakistan through diplomatic channels. Officials said this sidestepped procedures outlined in the Indus Waters Treaty, heightening tensions between the two countries.
Pakistan has put 28 key departments on alert, warning that the Chenab, Sutlej, and Tawi rivers are expected to carry dangerously high water levels over the next several days.
Chenab River Levels Surge
Fresh data from flood control authorities shows a steep increase in water inflows along the Chenab, with downstream areas facing a second surge of floodwater:
- Head Marala: 538,000 cusecs
- Khanki Headworks: 517,000 cusecs
- Qadirabad Headworks: 232,450 cusecs
- Trimmu Headworks: 355,744 cusecs
- Balloki Headworks: 117,655 cusecs
- Sidhnai Headworks: 193,470 cusecs
- Chiniot Bridge: 108,343 cusecs
In Chiniot, river flow has risen to over 112,000 cusecs, with a surge of 468,000 cusecs from Head Marala expected downstream. Qadirabad Barrage in Hafizabad has recorded a sharp increase, hitting nearly 253,000 cusecs—almost 100,000 cusecs higher than previous levels. At Head Muhammad Wala, the water level has climbed to 411 feet, adding further pressure to flood defenses.
Sutlej River Under Heavy Strain
The Sutlej River is also swelling rapidly, with inflows at:
- Sulemanki Headworks: 122,736 cusecs
- Islam Headworks: 95,727 cusecs
Officials have warned of a growing threat to downstream districts, particularly with continuous rain expected to exacerbate the situation through September 5.
Emergency Measures Intensify
Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), civil administration, and the Pakistan Army have been placed on high alert. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said emergency teams are ready to protect lives and property as floodwaters threaten vulnerable communities.
“Very high flood” warnings have been issued for both the Sutlej and Chenab rivers, with authorities urging residents in at-risk areas to prepare for possible evacuations.
Forecast Points to More Trouble Ahead
Meteorologists are predicting sustained heavy rainfall across multiple districts through the end of the week, raising fears of further river swelling and potential embankment breaches. Authorities are racing to reinforce flood defenses and evacuate residents where needed.
