Pakistan’s flood authorities have warned of rising flood risks after India released water into the Chenab River, causing water levels to surge at multiple locations across Punjab.

According to the Flood Forecasting Division, water flow at Head Trimmu in Jhang reached 148,000 cusecs on Friday, while the floodwater released upstream from India was expected to arrive later in the day.

Irrigation officials said the flood wave had already passed through Chiniot, where the Chenab’s flow climbed to 236,000 cusecs, creating a high flood situation.

The Punjab Irrigation Department attributed the sharp increase in river flows to India opening all gates of the Salal Dam, significantly increasing the volume of water entering Pakistan through the Chenab.

High flood conditions were reported at Head Khanki and Qadirabad, while medium-level flooding was recorded at Head Marala, Balloki, and the Basantar stream in Narowal.

Meanwhile, low-level flooding was reported at Tarbela, Chashma, Mangla, Nowshera, Chiniot Bridge, and the Dhek stream. Water levels at Tarbela and Mangla dams stood at 1,519.11 feet and 1,183.90 feet, respectively.

Authorities said water levels at Head Marala, Khanki, Qadirabad, Mangla, Lahri and Balloki were continuing to rise, prompting emergency preparedness measures in vulnerable areas.

Earlier, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal accused India of releasing excess water without advance notification, alleging that the move had intensified flood risks in Punjab and endangered lives, property and agricultural land.