A significant flood wave originating from Punjab’s rivers is expected to reach the Panjnad Headworks today, September 5, and is likely to hit the Guddu Barrage within the next two days. This raises serious concerns for downstream communities in Sindh, as the surge threatens low-lying areas.
The Sindh Information Department reported that the inflow at Head Panjnad has reached 227,710 cusecs, with an outflow of 213,740 cusecs. This enormous volume of water will soon join the Indus River system, which is already swollen due to ongoing monsoon rains and upstream river contributions. At Guddu Barrage, the inflow is currently 342,153 cusecs, with outflow recorded at 310,408 cusecs.
Further downstream, Sukkur Barrage is seeing an inflow of 331,230 cusecs and an outflow of 275,850 cusecs. Kotri Barrage is also experiencing high water levels, with 247,186 cusecs flowing in and 209,431 cusecs released. In response, Rescue 1122 has intensified operations and set up emergency camps at Kotri Barrage to assist with potential evacuations.
Sindh Agriculture Minister Muhammad Bux Mahar inspected flood embankments at Guddu Barrage and the Kandhkot-Kashmore area, assuring residents that the situation is “under control.” However, he warned that a flood wave of up to 700,000 cusecs could arrive in the coming days and urged people living in vulnerable areas to stay alert and prepared.
Punjab’s five rivers—Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—merge to form the Panjnad River. Flood conditions across these rivers remain critical, with the Sutlej at extremely high flood at Ganda Singh Wala, Ravi facing high levels at Head Balloki and very high levels at Head Sidhnai, and the Chenab rising at multiple points including Head Khanki and Qadirabad. Breaches in embankments near Multan, Shujabad Canal, and Shershah have submerged villages, leaving residents little time to evacuate. Authorities continue to urge vigilance and cooperation with emergency services in affected areas.
Amid this rsing alert, Sindh braces as Murad Ali Shah says floodwater is under control
