INDIA’S FLOOD WARNING TO PAKISTAN
Theme: Disaster Management | India-Pakistan Relations | Geography | International Treaties
Context:
- On August 26, 2025, India issued a flood warning to Pakistan regarding potential flooding in the Tawi River as a humanitarian gesture, despite the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) remaining suspended after the Pahalgam terror attack (April 22, 2025).
WHY THE WARNING WAS ISSUED?
- Continuous heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in Jammu.
- Tawi River flowing close to 12 feet, nearing the danger mark of 17 feet.
- Prediction of further rainfall, cloudbursts, and rising river levels until August 27.
- Humanitarian concern for downstream populations in Sialkot, Pakistan.
ABOUT TAWI RIVER
- Major left-bank tributary of the Chenab River.
- Origin: Kailash Kund glacier, Bhaderwah, Doda district (J&K).
- Flows through: Udhampur → Jammu → Enters Sialkot (Pakistan’s Punjab province).
INDUS WATER TREATY: CURRENT STATUS
- A 1960 treaty between India and Pakistan for sharing rivers of the Indus Basin.
- Mandates information-sharing on river flows, floods, etc.
- Currently in abeyance post April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack.
- Despite the suspension, India’s alert to Pakistan showcases responsible diplomacy and humanitarian concern.
IMPACT ON LOCAL AREAS IN JAMMU
- Close to 800 deaths reported due to extreme weather in 2025.
- Includes 65 deaths during Machail Yatra in Kishtwar (flash floods).
- Orange Alert issued:
- Public advised against trekking or entering mountainous areas.
- Residents in low-lying areas advised to remain vigilant.
- Infrastructure Damage:
- Bridge collapse over Sehar Khad in Kathua disrupted NH-44 traffic between Kathua and Samba.
- All schools (govt. & private) closed in Jammu province for August 25–26.
SIGNIFICANCE OF INDIA’S ACTIONS
- Humanitarian Diplomacy: Upholding international norms despite bilateral tensions.
- Disaster Risk Reduction: Timely alerts can help mitigate downstream impact.
- Strategic Communication: Reinforces India’s global image as a responsible regional actor.
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