The Indus Water Commissioner, Mehr Ali Shah, has raised an alarm over a major drop in water levels in the River Chenab, stating that flows have fallen drastically in several areas. He revealed that on December 16, the river’s discharge was recorded at just 1,800 cusecs, significantly lower than normal levels, causing concern among irrigation and water management authorities.

Mehr Ali Shah said Pakistan has always honoured the Indus Waters Treaty but claimed that India is not sharing the required river data, prompting Islamabad to send a formal letter to its downstream neighbour. He added that Pakistan will pursue its constitutional and legal rights through all available forums if cooperation is not restored.

In Sialkot’s Marala region, water flow in the Chenab also fell sharply from 12,829 cusecs to 9,678 cusecs, and nearby canal channels registered reduced supply, adding to agricultural and irrigation worries.