Punjab is battling one of its worst natural disasters as rising waters from the Chenab and Sutlej rivers cause devastating floods. At least 46 people have died, and millions have been displaced across the province.
Officials warned that Multan city and vital infrastructure, including Sher Shah Bridge, face extreme pressure as water levels continue to rise. The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) confirmed Tarbela Dam is now at full capacity, while Mangla Dam is nearly 87% full. Smaller dams, including Khanpur, Rawal, and Simli, are also close to overflowing, adding to the floods risk downstream.
Extremely high flood levels were reported at Head Sadhanai and Ganda Singh Wala on the Sutlej. On the Chenab, Khanki, Qadirabad, and Chiniot Bridge face “very high” flood conditions. Other locations such as Marala, Ravi Siphon, Shahdara, and Head Sulemanki remain on high alert.
In Multan, Sher Shah Bridge is under serious threat. Officials fear defenses could fail if water levels hit 417 feet. Several villages in Kabirwala and Shujaabad have already been submerged, forcing families to flee.
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that over 3.5 million people are affected. Nearly 4,000 settlements are under water, and 1.5 million people have been rescued. Breaches were made in Kabirwala, Pir Mahal, and Ahmadpur Sial to release pressure, but thousands remain displaced.
In Bahawalnagar, water levels in the Sutlej River rose again, breaking another temporary dam. Standing crops were submerged, and nearby residents are now at high risk as floodwaters spread further.
Authorities warn that waters from the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej will converge at Panjnad by September 5. Around 900,000 cusecs could reach Sindh between September 6 and 7, worsening the floods crisis.
Officials attribute the rising danger to heavy rains in Indian Punjab and excess water released from upstream dams. Combined inflows have created simultaneous floods in multiple rivers, a rare and dangerous situation for Punjab and beyond.
In other related news also read Mother Dies Rescuing Son from Raging Punjab Floods
