Experts Clarify India's Role in Pakistan's Devastating Floods

Understanding the Flood Situation in Pakistan

This year’s catastrophic floods in Pakistan cannot be directly attributed to India, as clarified by hydrology experts on Wednesday. The severe impact has primarily been due to heavy rainfall in the upper regions near the border.

Media reports, public opinions, and even some officials had suggested that the floods were a result of water being released by India. However, experts have indicated that there is no evidence to support claims of intentional actions by India.

Since mid-August, torrential rains have been affecting both northwestern India and Pakistan's Punjab province, causing nearly all rivers and tributaries to overflow their banks.

Last week, the provincial government of Punjab stated that unprecedented monsoon rains, coupled with additional water released from India, have led to a rapid rise in the water levels of three eastern rivers: Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab.

To understand the process of water release from dams, the 'Express Tribune' consulted experts who identified multiple factors contributing to the flooding. Dr. Hasan F. Khan, an urban water expert from Tufts University, explained that each dam has two main systems: regular water release gates and spillways for overflow.

Regular gates are used for agricultural water supply needs and are considered normal outlets. Dr. Hasan noted, "However, when a dam reaches its maximum capacity, water cannot be held back due to the risk of structural damage."

According to Dr. Hasan, India has released water from several dams recently as they reached full capacity. He stated, "India claims this is the case. While Pakistan cannot directly confirm it, given the context, it makes sense. Such water releases are not unusual."