
Background
Amid devastating floods in pakistan, india has issued a flood alert for the sutlej River.
Heavy and continuous rainfall in northern indian states forced authorities to release excess water from major dams.
Alerts were officially sent to Islamabad through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on humanitarian grounds.
Details of the Alert
India warned pakistan on Tuesday, september 2, 2025, about the possibility of flooding in the sutlej on Wednesday, september 3, 2025.
This follows three earlier alerts regarding potential floods in the Tawi River last week.
The warning aims to help pakistan prepare and minimize loss of life and property.
Suspension of Indus Water Treaty Data Exchange
Normally, hydrological data is exchanged regularly between india and pakistan under the Indus Water Treaty.
However, india suspended this exchange after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on april 22, 2025, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists.
Despite the suspension, india still provided this crucial alert to Pakistan.
Rising River Levels in Punjab
Rivers including the sutlej, Beas, and ravi are in spate due to heavy rainfall in their catchment areas.
Smaller seasonal rivers in punjab are also swelling, adding to the flood threat.
Humanitarian Gesture
Officials emphasized that the warning was issued solely on humanitarian grounds.
India’s decision reflects generosity, despite strained ties and the suspension of regular data exchange.
By alerting pakistan in advance, india seeks to reduce potential casualties and property damage.
Key Takeaway
Despite heightened political and security tensions, India extended a humanitarian warning to pakistan about possible Sutlej flooding.
This gesture highlights the importance of cooperation during natural disasters, even amid strained bilateral relations.