ISLAMABAD, August 25 — Pakistan is facing another grave challenge in the wake of climate change, as India has released additional water into the Ravi River after earlier discharges into the Sutlej. New Delhi has formally contacted Islamabad under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), sharing advance information and warning of potential flooding in the Tawi River at Jammu.
The situation comes at a time when Pakistan is already reeling under the devastating impact of heavy monsoon rains and flash floods, which have so far claimed 799 lives, left 1,080 injured, and damaged or destroyed over 7,225 houses nationwide. The floods have also resulted in the loss of more than 5,574 livestock, further compounding the crisis for rural communities.
Provincial Impact
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): An emergency has been declared in nine districts, where floods have caused 479 deaths, 347 injuries, and damaged 4,077 homes along with more than 100 schools.
- Punjab: Rising water levels in the Indus, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers have displaced thousands and destroyed extensive cash crops, raising fears of long-term food insecurity.
- Gilgit-Baltistan (GB): A glacier burst and landslide in Ghizer district destroyed over 330 houses and several shops, leaving hundreds of families homeless. A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) triggered widespread destruction and created an artificial lake on Friday. Authorities have confirmed 45 deaths in the region.
Climate Change at the Core
Experts warn that climate change is intensifying monsoon variability, glacial melting, and extreme weather events, leaving Pakistan among the most vulnerable countries in the world. The combination of transboundary water releases, glacier bursts, and erratic rainfall underscores the urgent need for regional cooperation, robust flood management, and climate adaptation strategies.
Authorities across Pakistan are on high alert, with rescue and relief operations underway in affected areas. However, with river flows rising and more rains expected, the humanitarian crisis continues to deepen.