Pakistan, May 6 -- During my farming days in Kasur, part of my land was fronted along river Sutlej. During winter days it would be a delight to enjoy barbeque along the riverbank in the company of friends. Sutlej waters are controlled by India under the Indus Treaty. In normal times the flow of water was limited, however during the rainy monsoon season that would change. With gushing rain waters, the Indian reservoir capacity would overflow and they would release the excess water downstream causing floods and havoc. Sutlej, like other Punjab rivers, has a meandering flow changing its course several times over decades.

One particular year these powerful waters hit a part of my farm. My manager informed me and I rushed over with Afzal Ghau...