WAPDA reports dramatic 24-hour changes in inflow as Pakistan fears further water cuts

Sudden Rise and Rapid Fall in Chenab Flow

Pakistan has reported significant instability in the Chenab River’s water levels after India abruptly released — then swiftly reduced — outflows from the Baglihar Dam.

According to WAPDA, the river experienced an unusual 58,300 cusec spike in flow after the dam’s spillways were opened. But within the next 24 hours, the Chenab witnessed a massive drop of 48,000 cusecs, triggering concerns across Pakistan’s water management authorities.

Today, the Chenab’s inflow stands at 10,100 cusecs, compared to 7,000 cusecs on Monday. Sources claim India released “excess water” the previous day but has now resumed storing it, raising fears of further reductions.

What caused such an extreme fluctuation in a single day?
Why is India alternating between sudden releases and abrupt stoppages?
How will these swings impact Pakistan’s water security and agricultural planning?

WAPDA confirmed the Chenab’s current discharge at 3,800 cusecs.

Concerns Over Future Water Shortages

Officials warn that if India continues to restrict outflows, Pakistan may face even lower Chenab levels, intensifying pressure on irrigation, hydropower, and downstream communities.

The pattern of sudden release followed by immediate withholding has deepened concerns over India’s “manipulation” of the Chenab — a river governed under the Indus Waters Treaty.

Pakistan’s Latest Water Data

WAPDA shared updated national river flow statistics and reservoir conditions:

Indus River

• Inflow: 19,100 cusecs
• Outflow: 28,000 cusecs

Jhelum River

• Inflow: 3,400 cusecs
• Outflow: 35,000 cusecs

Chashma Barrage

• Inflow: 27,800 cusecs
• Outflow: 38,000 cusecs

Kabul River

• Inflow: 7,400 cusecs
• Outflow: 7,400 cusecs

Reservoir Levels

• Tarbela Dam:
  Water level 1,489.86 ft; storage 2.649 MAF
• Mangla Dam:
  Water level 1,211.20 ft; storage 4.988 MAF
• Chashma Reservoir:
  Water level 645.90 ft; storage 171,000 acre feet

Total usable water storage: 7.808 million acre feet