Rising water levels in the Ravi River have led to large-scale evacuations in Lahore and nearby districts. Officials warn that the flood situation is becoming critical and urge residents to move to safer areas immediately.
On Thursday, announcements were made through mosques asking people in low-lying areas to evacuate with their families and livestock. Section 144 has been imposed to restrict movement in flood-affected zones.
At Shahdara, the Ravi River’s water flow surged to 151,000 cusecs and is expected to rise above 200,000 cusecs within 12 hours. The river’s total capacity is 250,000 cusecs. Authorities have prepared emergency plans to manage further increases.
Lahore Commissioner Asif Bilal Lodhi said that evacuations from the riverbed are complete. About 500 families have been moved to relief camps so far. At Jassar, the Ravi River remains in a critical flood state with a flow of 166,000 cusecs.
The floods have caused significant damage in Punjab. Over 150,000 people and 35,000 livestock have been evacuated. More than 600,000 people are affected, with hundreds of villages submerged and millions of acres of farmland damaged.
The rising Ravi waters have also impacted the historic Kartarpur Gurdwara in Narowal, submerging its grounds. Over 150 Sikh pilgrims and staff were rescued safely by emergency teams.
Meanwhile, the government has released Rs900 million for flood relief. Rescue teams continue to operate, shifting thousands to safety and providing food, shelter, and medical care through numerous relief camps.
The situation remains serious as the Ravi River continues to rise. Authorities are on high alert and working hard to manage the flood crisis and reduce risks for affected communities.
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