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A flood alert was issued across Muzaffarabad on Saturday after locals reported a sudden and sharp rise in the water levels of the Jhelum River.
Residents in the area have raised concerns over the alleged release of water from the Indian side of the border without prior notification to Pakistani authorities.
Locals Claim Unnotified Water Release From India
The rising water levels along the Jhelum River, particularly from the Chakothi border to Muzaffarabad, have led locals to fear the possibility of a flood.
Residents claim that India’s decision to release water from dams on the Indian side of the border was made without informing Pakistani authorities, triggering panic.
Pakistani officials have confirmed the increase in water levels, prompting the local administration in Muzaffarabad to declare a water emergency, especially in the Hattian Bala area.
Locals from the surrounding areas, including Ghari Dupatta, Majhoi, and Muzaffarabad, have reported the rising water levels, with authorities issuing warnings through mosque announcements urging residents to evacuate.
Panic Among Locals As Warnings Spread
Residents of the affected areas have described the sudden increase in water levels as alarming. One local from Ghari Dupatta stated, “The warning announcements have created panic among the residents living near the riverbanks.”
India released water from its Anantnag region, which passed through the Chakothi area and entered the Jhelum River.
Experts suggest that the release of water could be a response to the tensions over the recent Pahalgam terror attack and the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
Political Tensions Over The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)
Javed Siddique, a political analyst, pointed out that India linked its release of water to the ongoing tensions.
He warned that this move could escalate the already fragile relationship between the two nations.
“We should not forget that the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) has survived three wars and numerous regional issues. Yet, India now seems prepared to withdraw from this long-standing agreement,” Siddique remarked.
Pakistan Seeks Investigation Into Pahalgam Attack
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered to join a neutral and transparent investigation.
The investigation pertains to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives.
International Mediation Efforts To De-escalate Tensions
Iran and Saudi Arabia have offered to mediate and help de-escalate tensions between India and Pakistan.
As the situation develops, the international community remains concerned about the potential for further conflict in the region.
Also Read: Pak Army Chief Munir Revives Two-Nation Theory Amid Tensions With India
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