PoK Faces Turmoil After India Releases Jhelum River Water: Report

A sudden rise in the Jhelum River’s water level has triggered widespread chaos across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Reports claim that India allegedly released water from the Uri Dam without prior warning, creating panic among the residents of Hattian Bala district.

Residents Flee as Emergency Declared

The abrupt discharge forced residents living along the riverbanks to evacuate to safer areas. In Muzaffarabad and Chakoti, local officials used loudspeakers to issue urgent warnings.
“We had no warning. The water came rushing in, and we’re struggling to protect lives and property,” said Muhammad Asif, a resident of Dumel village in PoK.

India Accused of Breaching Indus Waters Treaty

Pakistan strongly criticised India’s action, calling it a violation of international norms and the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). India had earlier suspended the treaty on April 23, following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.

The PoK government accused India of engaging in deliberate “water terrorism,” pointing out the absence of prior notification, which they say breaches the 1960 treaty facilitated by the World Bank. The IWT requires both nations to exchange information about water releases to prevent harm downstream.

Moderate Flooding and Damage Reported

Moderate flooding was reported in low-lying areas like Kohala and Dhalkot. Losses included livestock and crops, although the full extent of damage remains unclear. A district official in Muzaffarabad urged citizens to stay away from riverbanks.
“Due to India releasing more water than usual into the Jhelum river, there is moderate flooding,” the official said.

Rescue Operations and Temporary Shelters Set Up

Authorities in PoK quickly mobilised rescue operations, with the Hattian Bala administration setting up temporary shelters. “We’re doing all we can, but the scale of this crisis is overwhelming,” said District Commissioner Bilal Ahmed.

Officials also advised people to avoid riverbanks, fishing, or grazing livestock near the water.

Indian Officials Maintain Silence

Across the border, Indian officials have not issued any official statement, neither confirming nor denying the water release. Some Indian media reports, however, described the discharge as a routine operation prompted by heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir.