As the Sutlej River swells to an unprecedented scale, leaving in its wake a trail of displacement, devastation and tragedy, the imperative for a robust disaster management framework becomes strikingly apparent. The recent inundation, prompting the evacuation of thousands of affected families, underscores both the capriciousness of such incidents and the dire necessity for efficient readiness in such situations.
According to sources, these flooding are intricately linked to the fluctuating water flow at pivotal junctures such as Harike Headworks and Ferozepur headworks. With the water level surging past 23 feet and an overwhelming flow of 269,000 cusecs at the Ganda Singh Wala Barrage, the crisis is palpable. Of paramount concern is the looming forecast of an “extremely high-level” flood at Head Sulemanki.
Tragically, the recent loss of lives as a result of this poignantly illustrates the human toll exacted by such disasters. Families uprooted, homes submerged and livelihoods obliterated — these are the harrowing consequences that underscore the urgency of our response. All stakeholders, ranging from local authorities to disaster management agencies, are now summoned to orchestrate a concerted, coherent effort to alleviate the consequences of this unfolding catastrophe. Moreover, a call to the international community should be made to provide relevant provisions for the victims. Many were grateful to lend us a helping hand during the 2020 floods. In addition to local measures, there is a pressing need for bilateral cooperation with neighbouring India. It is essential that diplomatic efforts are directed towards negotiating the release of water from dams along the Sutlej River.
The torrential surge of the Sutlej serves as a poignant reminder that the welfare of our fellow citizens necessitates proactive, future-oriented disaster preparedness strategies. The current tragedy should not fade into oblivion as soon as the water recedes.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 22nd, 2023.
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