ISLAMABAD, JUL 19: Amid rising concerns over potential flooding, Pakistan has officially demanded that India fulfil its obligations under the Indus Waters Treaty by issuing advance notifications of any unusual floodwater releases.
Authorities say India has so far remained completely silent on Pakistan’s repeated requests.
According to official sources, Pakistan has reminded India that under the legally binding Indus Waters Treaty, it is India’s responsibility to notify Pakistan in advance about any abnormal discharge or flood relays, especially from its dams and reservoirs.
“Unusual rainfall in the lower basins of the eastern rivers — particularly below Indian dams — can lead to sudden flooding in Pakistan,” officials warned. “This is precisely why the advance notification clause exists, and why it must be implemented without delay.”
India’s silence raises concerns
Despite multiple reminders, there has been no formal response from India on the matter, raising alarm in Pakistan’s flood management circles.
Sources within the federal government confirmed that Pakistan is currently monitoring flood relays in rivers Chenab, Sutlej, and Ravi through alternative means, including satellite data and field reports. However, they stressed that real-time, cross-border communication is vital to protect vulnerable populations from the devastating impact of flash floods.
Treaty obligations must be honoured, says Pakistan
“The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, clearly outlines India’s responsibilities regarding flood data sharing,” a senior official said. “It is not just a diplomatic formality; it’s a critical step in disaster preparedness and saving lives.”
A day earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had issued a strong warning to India over the Indus Waters Treaty, urging New Delhi to remember the “lesson of May 10″.
Moreover, Pakistan raised concerns over India’s threats to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and block Pakistan’s water at the 25th session of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission in Jeddah.
Speaking at the session focused on ‘The Right to Water’, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the OIC, Syed Fawad Sher, highlighted India’s unilateral actions regarding the treaty. He stressed the legal, moral, and social significance of the right to water, especially for Pakistan, which is already facing severe water scarcity.
Sher warned that India’s rigid stance would further aggravate climate-related challenges in the region. He reminded participants that OIC foreign ministers have already expressed concern over India’s decision, while global voices have also advocated for the continuation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Sher emphasized that Pakistan will continue to raise the issue at international platforms to safeguard its water rights under the treaty.
