Punjab is facing a serious flood threat as the Chenab River has swollen to dangerous levels. The rise is due to heavy water releases from India and ongoing rains. Authorities have warned residents to prepare for worsening conditions.
The flood surge has already submerged hundreds of villages in Punjab. More than 2 million people have been displaced, with crops destroyed and homes flooded. The city of Multan is especially at risk as the flood wave is expected to hit soon.
At Head Trimmu, the Chenab recorded an inflow of nearly 479,743 cusecs. Officials warn the flood peak could reach up to 900,000 cusecs, which could force them to breach embankments near Head Muhammad Wala. This measure is intended to protect densely populated areas but may cause controlled flooding elsewhere.
The floodwaters have passed through Sialkot, Wazirabad, Chiniot, and Jhang. Authorities say over 200 villages in Punjab have been affected so far. Rescue teams are working to evacuate residents and provide aid.
Pakistani officials have accused India of releasing large volumes of water without prior warning. The sudden release from the Salal Dam sent around 800,000 cusecs downstream, increasing the risk for Punjab.
Fifteen districts in Punjab, including Multan, Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan, and Bahawalpur, remain on high alert. Dynamite has been placed at critical embankments to prepare for possible breaches.
So far, floods have caused at least 33 deaths in Punjab. Rescue teams, along with the army, have evacuated 750,000 people and moved 500,000 livestock to safer areas. Thermal drones are being used to find stranded families.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department predicts heavy rains from September 1 to 3. This may increase river levels further and cause urban flooding in cities like Lahore and Gujranwala.
With the Chenab still rising and more rain expected, Punjab remains in a critical flood situation. Authorities continue to monitor the crisis and urge residents to stay alert.
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