Flood Alert
The water level in the Chenab River at Akhnoor experienced a dramatic surge on Monday evening, only hours after an unexpected and sharp decline earlier in the day. This fluctuation has sparked concern and prompted urgent action from local authorities as the region braces for potential flooding.
Early Monday, the river’s flow had decreased significantly, a development attributed to the temporary closure of sluice gates at the Baglihar and Salal dams located upstream. The reduction in water discharge led to a notable drop in river levels, raising initial curiosity and speculation.
However, this brief lull was followed by an intense resurgence in the river’s current once the gates were reopened, sending a large volume of water cascading downstream towards Akhnoor.
Local police and administrative officials in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir acted swiftly upon receiving forecasts and hydrological updates predicting the rise in water levels. Authorities issued a warning to residents, particularly those living in low-lying and flood-prone areas along the riverbanks.
Visuals shared on social media and local news platforms depicted the Chenab River roaring back to life, with swirling muddy waters moving at high speed, threatening nearby settlements.
A public alert, disseminated by the Jammu & Kashmir police, read: “Chenab River’s water level is about to increase soon. All of you are requested to come out of the river immediately.” In response, precautionary evacuations were initiated to move vulnerable residents to safer zones, and emergency services were placed on high alert.
This hydrological event has unfolded at a time of heightened geopolitical tension between India and Pakistan, following India’s controversial moves to restrict water flows to Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty.
While the current flooding appears to be the result of dam gate operations rather than natural causes, the timing and scale of the water surge have raised questions about the broader implications of water management in this sensitive region.
Environmental experts are now closely monitoring the situation, warning that such abrupt changes in river flow can have devastating effects downstream, including erosion, infrastructure damage, and agricultural disruption. The coming days will be critical as authorities work to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of affected communities.
