India’s abrupt water release in Chenab River triggers flood fears

LAHORE: After holding back water for nearly 24 hours, India suddenly released a large volume into the Chenab River, raising alarm of possible flooding in Pakistan.

According to Pakistan’s irrigation officials, water flow at Head Marala surged to 28,000 cusecs, just hours after the river had nearly dried up.

The unannounced release caused water levels to rise rapidly, prompting local authorities to issue flood alerts in surrounding areas of Sialkot, Gujrat, and Head Qadirabad.

Earlier reports had indicated a significant drop in water flow at Head Marala to 5,300 cusecs, after India allegedly blocked the stream from the Baglihar Dam.

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The sudden fluctuation has raised serious concerns over India’s water management practices, with experts warning of flash flooding and violation of the Indus Waters Treaty.

Authorities in occupied Jammu and Kashmir also responded by issuing alerts in Akhnoor, evacuating riverbank residents fearing a potential surge.

The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has started real-time monitoring of Chenab’s inflows and outflows to track the situation. Officials say that water levels may continue to rise in the coming hours due to India’s “erratic and politically motivated” water releases.

District administrations have advised residents living near riverbanks to remain vigilant.