Gulistan News, Srinagar, May 06 : India has released 28,000 cusecs of water from the Chenab River at Head Marala, following a nearly 24-hour blockade. The sudden surge of water downstream has caused serious concerns in Pakistan, leading authorities to issue flood alerts for the regions of Sialkot, Gujrat, and Head Qadirabad. Pakistan’s Indus River System Authority (IRSA) is now monitoring the situation in real-time, fearing flash floods and extensive damage to communities along the river.
The release comes in the backdrop of heightened India-Pakistan tensions, with the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) at the center of the controversy. Under the IWT, India is required to provide prior notice to Pakistan before releasing substantial amounts of water from shared rivers, including the Chenab. However, in recent months, India has openly stated that after the Pahalgam massacre, its commitment to the IWT is no longer valid. India has made it clear that it will no longer adhere to the terms of the treaty, escalating the already tense relationship between the two nations.
Flood Alerts and Impact
Following India’s unexpected water release, Pakistani authorities are bracing for the worst. Flood warnings have been issued for districts in Punjab, particularly those along the Chenab River. Sialkot, Gujrat, and Head Qadirabad are most at risk of flash floods, which could lead to destruction of infrastructure, homes, and agricultural land.
Pakistan has mobilized emergency response teams to deal with any potential flooding, while local authorities are urging residents to stay alert and take precautions. The situation is made more volatile due to the lack of prior notice from India, a key component of the Indus Waters Treaty, which Pakistan accuses India of violating.
Water as Leverage
India’s recent action has led to accusations that water is now being used as a political lever. The Indus Waters Treaty, which was established to prevent such disputes and ensure fair distribution of river waters, has been under strain for years due to escalating tensions. The Pahalgam massacre, where several Indian soldiers were killed in a militant attack, has further soured relations between the two nations and led to India’s decision to backtrack on the IWT.
Chenab River: A Symbol of Tension
Earlier reports and satellite images had shown the Chenab nearly dried up, but now, with the gates open, the river is seeing a dramatic rise in water levels. The floodgates are open, signaling a potential disaster downstream. This sudden change has left local populations in a state of uncertainty, unsure of the full extent of the damage that may follow.
While India’s actions have been justified by some as a security measure, the ramifications for civilian lives in Pakistan are severe. Experts argue that water-sharing agreements, such as the IWT, are critical for regional stability and must be respected to avoid devastating consequences.
