Punjab is bracing for potentially devastating floods as relentless monsoon rains swell major rivers, forcing authorities to evacuate thousands of residents and place entire districts on high alert.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned of “very high” flood levels in several rivers within the next 48 hours, as water levels surge at alarming rates across the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab.
River Levels Hit Dangerous Marks
Officials reported a massive water flow of 188,000 cusecs at the Sutlej River near Ganda Singh Wala—one of the highest levels recorded this season. The Ravi River is also carrying heavy volumes, with 46,000 cusecs at Shahdara and 69,000 cusecs at Baloki. Moderate flooding has been confirmed at Head Sulemanki.
Adding to the concern, the Tarbela Dam is now at full capacity and Mangla Dam is three-quarters full, while dams across the border in India are nearing their limits. Experts fear that any additional water release upstream could overwhelm Pakistan’s river system.
Districts at Highest Risk
Authorities have flagged Dera Ghazi Khan, Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Vehari, Bahawalnagar, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, and Multan as priority districts for emergency action. Evacuation drives are already underway, with local administrations requesting military assistance in several areas.
Government employees in flood-prone zones have been ordered to remain on duty, and leave for officials has been canceled until further notice.
24,000 Residents Already Relocated
Rescue teams, supported by Rescue 1122 and the Punjab Police, have evacuated more than 24,000 people from vulnerable riverbank communities. Relief camps stocked with food, medical supplies, and shelter are being established in affected districts.
Urban centers are also at risk. The Meteorological Department has warned of possible urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala divisions as heavy rainfall continues.
Water Releases from India Add Pressure
Flood concerns have intensified following reports that India has begun releasing water from several dams. Hydrological data shows Thien Dam’s level has reached 1,717 feet, prompting large discharges into the Ravi River. Officials fear this could lead to severe flooding near Jasr and other downstream areas in the coming days.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has placed all agencies on high alert, projecting that flood levels could surge to 200,000 cusecs in the Chenab and 220,000 cusecs in the Sutlej.
Diplomatic Warnings, Not Formal Communication
Pakistan’s Indus Water Commissioner confirmed that India issued three warnings about high water flows through diplomatic channels but did not use official Indus Waters Treaty communication protocols. Authorities dismissed media reports suggesting direct correspondence between the two countries’ water commissions.
These warnings have been circulated to 27 federal and provincial departments, including provincial chief secretaries, WAPDA, and disaster management agencies.
Police and Emergency Forces Mobilized
Punjab’s Inspector General of Police, Dr. Usman Anwar, has deployed additional personnel to assist with evacuations, livestock relocation, and flood protection measures. Police patrols are monitoring riverbanks, while emergency control rooms remain active across flood-hit areas.
Residents have been urged to stay away from rivers, avoid unnecessary travel, and comply with evacuation orders. Officials emphasize that early preparation could mean the difference between life and death in the coming days.
