Sindh-Punjab Dispute Over Flood Data: Officials Differ on Flow Readings at Guddu Barrage
ISLAMABAD / KASHMORE: As swollen eastern rivers flow through Punjab towards Sindh, questions have been raised over the accuracy of flood data being shared between the two provinces. Sindh irrigation officials have claimed discrepancies in Punjab’s water flow readings, while Punjab authorities insist their automated and manual systems are working accurately.
Confusion Over Water Inflows
Initial estimates by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) suggested that 1.3 million cusecs of water could reach Guddu Barrage, based on heavy flows recorded at Qadirabad Barrage in late August. However, later estimates were revised, and the Sindh chief minister said Guddu was expected to receive 650,000–700,000 cusecs.
By mid-September, Guddu Barrage had already recorded multiple flood peaks, with flows crossing 510,000 cusecs at their highest point.
Sindh’s Concerns
Sindh officials, after visiting Panjnad on September 7, reported differences in water gauge readings. For example, they noted that Punjab recorded 11.7ft at Chacharan Bridge, while Sindh’s measurement showed 11.3ft. They argued that this mismatch created confusion over the actual flows heading toward Guddu Barrage.
A federal official also pointed out that rating tables—used to calibrate stage-wise discharges—may not have been updated to account for flows above 600,000 cusecs, leading to possible inaccuracies. Another observation suggested a 60,000–70,000 cusecs variation between automated SCADA readings and manual records at Panjnad, which was later adjusted when the flood peak passed.
Punjab’s Response
Punjab irrigation authorities strongly denied any irregularities. Khurram Amin, Additional Secretary (Technical), said both automated and manual systems were working properly. He added that Sindh had not submitted any written complaint regarding the alleged discrepancies.
He explained that during high flood season, Punjab uses gauge wells on the left side of rivers, where flows are smoother, to ensure more accurate readings. Any minor difference of 4,000–5,000 cusecs, he said, should not be considered significant.
Faisal Mushtaq, Bahawalpur irrigation region’s Superintending Engineer, also dismissed Sindh’s claims, saying the flow can easily be cross-verified at Panjnad, Chachran Sharif, and Guddu Barrage. According to him, the Sindh delegation that visited recently did not raise objections on-site.
The Way Forward
While Sindh maintains there are inconsistencies in Punjab’s reporting, Punjab stands firm that its systems are functioning accurately. With large volumes of water still moving downstream, clarity on these flow measurements is critical for flood management and disaster preparedness in Sindh.
