Why the Indus River is Vital for Pakistan’s Survival: Sample Q&A

The Indus River: Key Facts and Importance
1. The Indus – A Vital Water Resource
The Indus River is Pakistan’s primary freshwater source, playing a critical role in:
Agriculture: Punjab and Sindh, known as Pakistan’s “breadbasket,” rely heavily on its waters.
Industry: Supports textile, manufacturing, and hydroelectric power generation.
Drinking Water: Major cities depend on the Indus for potable water.
The name “Punjab” means “Land of Five Rivers,” referring to the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—all merging into the Indus.

2. Length and Source of the Indus River
The exact length of the Indus varies across sources:
3,180 km (1,980 mi) – Most widely accepted (Himalayan Climate and Water Atlas, 2015).
2,880 km (1,790 mi) – Previously used in older references.
3,600 km (2,200 mi) – Proposed by Chinese researchers in 2011, pending further validation.
Source Debate:
Traditional source: Sênggê Kanbab (Lion’s Mouth) near Mount Kailash, Tibet.
Alternative source: Confluence of Sênggê Zangbo and Gar Tsangpo rivers.
2011 study suggests a small lake northeast of Mount Kailash as the true origin.

3. The River’s Course Through South Asia
The Indus flows through diverse landscapes:
Tibet: Begins near Mount Kailash.
Ladakh & Gilgit-Baltistan: Receives glacial waters from the Zanskar, Shyok, and Gilgit rivers.
Punjab Plains (Pakistan): Slows down, forming a braided network.
Sindh Delta: Ends near Thatta, forming one of the largest deltas in the world.
Notable Features:
Deep gorges (4,500–5,200 m) near Nanga Parbat.
Tarbela Dam – One of the world’s largest earth-filled dams.
Tidal bore phenomenon – Rare in rivers globally.

4. Seasonal Variations and Historical Shifts
Monsoon Floods (July–September): Causes heavy flooding, replenishing agricultural lands.
Winter: Water levels drop significantly.
Historical Course Change: After the 1816 earthquake, the Indus shifted westward, no longer flowing into the Rann of Kutch.


Sample Questions and Answers (For Competitive Exams)
Q1. Which river is known as the lifeline of Pakistan?
A: The Indus River.
Q2. What does “Punjab” mean, and which rivers contribute to it?
A: Punjab means “Land of Five Rivers” – Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej.
Q3. Where does the Indus River originate?
A: Near Mount Kailash in Tibet (traditional source: Sênggê Kanbab).
Q4. Which is the largest dam built on the Indus River?
A: Tarbela Dam.
Q5. What rare natural phenomenon occurs in the Indus River?
A: A tidal bore (a strong tidal wave moving upstream).