Flood Alert in PoK After Pakistan Accuses India of Sudden Jhelum Water Release
Pakistan has accused India of suddenly releasing water into the Jhelum river without prior notice, prompting a flood alert and emergency measures in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated further after the Pahalgam terror attack as Islamabad on Saturday accused New Delhi of abruptly releasing water into the Jhelum river. A report by Dunya News said a sharp rise in water levels was observed near Muzaffarabad, sparking panic among locals.
The local administration in Hattian Bala, situated along the Jhelum river, declared a water emergency and issued public warnings via mosque announcements. Authorities blamed India for what they termed a “complete violation of international rules and water agreements.”
Residents living near the riverbanks were alerted following the sudden water surge that reportedly originated from Kashmir’s Anantnag district and flowed into PoK through Chakothi. Videos circulating on social media showed water levels rising rapidly, increasing fears of potential flooding.
“The sudden increase in water volume without any prior communication is not just alarming but dangerous,” a senior local official in PoK told Dunya News.
The accusations follow India’s decision to suspend the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 dead. New Delhi announced that the suspension will remain in place until Pakistan takes credible and irreversible action against terrorism.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank, has withstood wars and diplomatic tensions for over six decades. Under the agreement, India controls the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — while Pakistan manages the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab.
India’s move to suspend the treaty marks a major shift in its traditionally restrained approach towards water sharing.
Experts warn that any disruption in the flow of the western rivers could severely impact Pakistan’s agriculture, which relies heavily on the Indus river system. Nearly 90% of the country’s irrigation depends on these rivers.
“A long-term disruption could be catastrophic for Pakistan’s food security and rural economy, particularly in Punjab and Sindh,” said Dr. Zafar Iqbal, a senior water management expert.
Water scarcity already poses a major threat to Pakistan, and further tensions could exacerbate domestic unrest.
As flood warnings continue in PoK, Pakistani authorities are monitoring the situation closely. Meanwhile, diplomatic channels between the two countries remain frozen following the suspension of trade, airspace restrictions, and now, water sharing agreements.
India has not officially yet responded to the fresh allegations regarding the Jhelum water release.
