Punjab flood response amid India‑Pakistan water dispute

Late July 2026, heavy monsoon rains and water released from India's Salal Dam caused the Chenab River to swell dramatically in Pakistan’s Punjab province. Provincial authorities placed the Trimmu Headworks on high alert, deployed emergency teams, evacuated residents, distributed relief supplies, and launched a drone‑based monitoring system for real‑time flood warnings. Across the border, Indian Punjab announced new irrigation pipelines to lessen groundwater stress.

On 24 July, the situation intensified after an unannounced release of water from upstream Indian dams triggered additional surges in the Chenab. A protective embankment collapsed in Liaquatpur’s Bet Parara area, submerging dozens of villages. More than 4,300 residents and 3,500 livestock were evacuated to relief camps in Chiniot, Faisalabad and other districts. Rescue 1122 teams continued rescue and relief operations, reinforced embankments and repaired a breached canal near Chiniot.

Pakistan’s officials again accused New Delhi of “water aggression,” noting that India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty removed the requirement for advance notice. India maintained the releases were necessary due to excessive inflows. Relief and reconstruction efforts remain ongoing as both sides grapple with flood damage and water‑resource management challenges.