Islamabad( The COW News Digital)India has formally alerted Pakistan about a potential flood threat under the framework of the Indus Waters Treaty, following the release of excess water from rivers in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to official sources, the Indian High Commission in Islamabad communicated with Pakistani authorities, notifying them about the release of water from the Tawi River in Jammu and Kashmir. The alert was issued early on August 24, warning Pakistan of the possibility of heavy flooding downstream.
The notification, made in line with the Indus Waters Treaty signed in 1960, reflects the formal mechanism between the two countries to share river flow information, particularly during emergency situations such as floods. Sources revealed that Indian authorities informed their Pakistani counterparts about the scale of water discharge, allowing timely preparations on Pakistan’s side.
In response to India’s alert, Pakistan’s disaster management bodies and provincial administrations have been directed to remain on high alert, especially in Punjab, where riverine flooding is feared. Emergency instructions have been issued to local authorities to prepare for possible evacuations, reinforce embankments, and ensure timely dissemination of information to communities living near rivers.
Experts highlight that while such notifications are part of treaty obligations, the increasing frequency of high-water discharges from Indian dams has raised concerns in Pakistan. Many argue that climate change, combined with water management practices upstream, is intensifying the risk of sudden flooding in vulnerable areas of Punjab and Sindh.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank, allocates control of the three eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India, while granting Pakistan rights over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab). However, India is permitted to use limited amounts of water for agriculture and hydroelectric power projects, provided it does not alter the flow significantly.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Water Resources has confirmed that constant monitoring is underway, and coordination with the Pakistan Meteorological Department has been increased to track rainfall patterns that may further aggravate the situation.
As precautionary measures, flood warning systems are being activated in potentially affected districts, while rescue agencies have been placed on standby. Authorities have urged citizens living in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and follow official updates.
While the notification highlights cooperation under the treaty, it also underscores the fragility of water relations between the two nuclear neighbors, where disputes over dam construction and water flow often spark political tensions.
