Woman Dies After Jhelum Surge Following India’s Water Release Without Notice
A 55-year-old woman died after a sudden surge in the Jhelum River created a flood-like situation in Jhelum Valley district, reportedly after water was released from the Indian side without prior notice.
At Chakothi, the river flow rose sharply from around 2,500 cusecs to 24,000 cusecs as the sudden influx of water moved through Jhelum Valley district. The flow later dropped to approximately 5,000 cusecs.
According to Rescue 1122 officials, the water level in the Jhelum River increased from 14 feet to 19 feet during the surge, causing panic and concern among residents in vulnerable areas.
The sudden rise in water flow posed risks to lives and livelihoods, particularly for people who depend on activities along the river. Local residents said the strong current made it dangerous to approach the river for timber collection and other routine activities.
In the Kucha Saidan area of Hattian Bala Tehsil, 55-year-old Rehmat Bibi, wife of Syed Hussain Shah, was swept away by the strong current while attempting to collect wood from the river.
Rescue 1122 teams, police and local residents launched a search operation after she went missing. Rescue officials said they were facing difficulties in recovering her body because of the strong current.
The incident has increased concern among local residents, who attributed the sudden rise in the river’s water level to water released from the Indian side.
The local administration has advised people to stay away from rivers, streams and seasonal water channels during periods of increased water flow. Residents have also been urged not to collect wood or take livestock near the river and to keep children away from waterways.
The administration further advised residents to immediately contact Rescue 1122 or the relevant authorities in case of an emergency and called for increased vigilance, warning that water levels in mountainous areas can rise suddenly and rapidly.
The latest incident has also renewed concerns over the impact of sudden changes in cross-border water flows on communities living along the Jhelum River.
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