Muzaffarabad, April 26, 2025: In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, India has abruptly released water into the Jhelum River without prior notification to Pakistan, triggering an emergency situation in parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The sudden surge has led to a sharp rise in water levels near Muzaffarabad, prompting the local administration to declare a water emergency in Hattian Bala. Mosque announcements were made to warn residents living near the riverbanks, creating panic among communities at risk.
The water entered from Indian-occupied Anantnag and flowed through the Chakothi area, catching the local authorities by surprise. However, given India’s recent threats to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), such a move was seen as a possibility.
The unilateral water release is a clear violation of international norms and the longstanding Indus Waters Treaty, which has endured three wars and numerous regional tensions since its signing in 1960. India’s actions have drawn strong condemnation from Pakistan, where national unity against these measures is rapidly strengthening.
In response, Pakistan’s National Security Committee has initiated urgent measures under international legal frameworks and warned that any further hostile actions by India could escalate tensions in the region.
The situation remains fluid as authorities continue to monitor water levels closely and work to protect vulnerable communities.
