Punjab faces a serious flood threat as water levels rise rapidly in major rivers. Authorities have issued warnings for very high floods in the Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers by September 5.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have placed all departments on high alert. Heavy water flows are affecting several key headworks across the region.
The Punjab Relief Commissioner, Nabeel Javed, said rains in upper areas have caused an unusual surge in river flows. Following the Punjab Chief Minister’s instructions, all relevant agencies are ready for emergency response.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia described the situation at Head Sidhnai as critical. Water flow there reached 137,000 cusecs, and the Safooran Dam faces the risk of breaching. Upstream water flow from Head Balloki to Head Sidhnai is 150,000 cusecs.
Kathia also mentioned a large flood wave moving southwards from the Chenab River. He warned that if the Safooran Dam breaches, it could create serious issues at Head Muhammad Wala.
Flood levels at Head Trimmu are extremely high, exceeding 516,000 cusecs and still rising. Water flows at other Chenab headworks are also high: 135,000 cusecs at Qadirabad, 120,000 cusecs at Khanki, and 96,000 cusecs at Marala.
The Sutlej River remains under flood threat with flows of 253,000 cusecs at Ganda Singhwala and 124,000 cusecs at Sulemanki. Similarly, the Ravi River shows rising flows of 54,000 cusecs at Jassar and 60,000 cusecs at Shahdara.
Officials warn that floodwaters of about 600,000 cusecs will reach Alipur by September 5. From September 6 to 7, floods may spread into Sindh. Authorities are ready to breach embankments if necessary to protect important infrastructure like Sher Shah Bridge.
Indian dams are reportedly 100% full, increasing flood risks downstream. So far, about 900,000 people have been evacuated in Punjab as a safety measure.
In Kashmore, the Indus River water levels are rising sharply. At the Guddu Barrage, inflow has increased to 360,777 cusecs, with an outflow of 345,373 cusecs.
Meanwhile, heavy rains in Khyber District caused damage to homes and one death. Rescue teams are active in assisting affected families.
The NDMA also reported rising water levels at Budhani Nallah in Peshawar, threatening low-lying areas. Residents are advised to stay cautious and avoid flooded zones.
Food and relief supplies are being sent to affected regions, with NDMA coordinating efforts with provincial agencies. The government remains vigilant as the flood threat continues to loom over Punjab and surrounding areas.
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