As swollen eastern rivers rushed through Punjab towards Sindh, confusion arose over the total inflows at Guddu Barrage, with conflicting figures circulating in the media.
Initially, the NDMA estimated that 1.3 million cusecs would reach Guddu, based on heavy flows observed at Qadirabad Barrage in late August. Guddu itself experienced varying peaks, including 510,798 cusecs on August 24. Statements of a “super flood” and breaches in Punjab fueled alarm in Sindh, though estimates were later revised to 650,000–700,000 cusecs.
Sindh’s Concerns
Sindh irrigation officials pointed to discrepancies in Punjab’s data, citing differences in gauge readings at Chacharan Bridge. They argued that outdated rating tables at several barrages may have led to inaccurate measurements during unusually high flows. Officials also noted mismatches between automated (SCADA) and manual readings, with variations of up to 70,000 cusecs before corrections were made.
Punjab’s Response
Punjab irrigation authorities firmly rejected the claims, insisting that both manual and automated systems were accurate. They argued that minor variations of 4,000–5,000 cusecs were normal and should not be treated as major discrepancies. Officials also emphasized that Sindh’s delegation had visited Head Panjnad recently and raised no written complaints.
Ongoing Debate
Punjab engineers stressed that flow measurements were carefully cross-checked at Panjnad, Chachran, and Guddu, ensuring accuracy. They urged Sindh authorities to formally document their concerns rather than rely on verbal claims.
The dispute underscores the sensitivity of water management between provinces, where accurate data is crucial for both flood control and inter-provincial trust. While Sindh highlights possible technical lapses, Punjab maintains that its systems are reliable and transparent.
