India releases 125,000 cusecs of water into Pakistan

Lahore: In response to escalating water levels due to overflowing Pong and Bhakra Dams, India has initiated the release of 125,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water into the Sutlej River, as confirmed by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) today.

The PDMA report outlines that the release comprises 141,000 cusecs from the Pong Dam and an additional 83,703 cusecs from the Bhakra Dam, contributing to the elevated water levels in the Sutlej River. Although the total volume released by India exceeds 125,000 cusecs, this amount has entered Pakistani territory.

The PDMA has issued a cautionary alert regarding an imminent moderate to high-intensity flood in the vicinity of Ganda Singh Wala village in Punjab, through which the Sutlej River meanders. Notably, Ganda Singh Wala holds historical significance as a former primary border crossing between India and Pakistan until 1986, and its vulnerability to flooding has been a long-standing concern.

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The escalation in water release follows heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh, India’s northern state, where both the Pong and Bhakra Dams are situated. The downpours of the past 48 hours have triggered severe flooding and landslides, leading to the unfortunate loss of several lives.

At present, the Pong Dam’s inflow has surged to an unprecedented 7.3 lakh cusecs. In light of the dam reaching full capacity, the Bhakra Beas Management Board officials have devised plans to release 1.4 lakh cusecs downstream, aiming to alleviate the mounting water pressure.

The situation underscores the critical importance of collaborative efforts and timely communication between nations, particularly in the face of natural disasters.

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