LAHORE: Pakistan is experiencing severe flooding as water levels in the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers continue to rise, leading to flood warnings across Punjab.
The Flood Forecasting Division reports that the Ravi River at Shahdara has reached a critical level with approximately 145,000 cusecs of water flow, while at Jassar, the flow has increased to 152,000 cusecs. Lahore’s officials have stated that the peak flow has passed, and water levels are expected to decline, assuring that the city remains secure and under control.
In the case of the Chenab River, extremely high flood levels have been observed at Khanki and Qadirabad barrages, with water flows reaching 859,000 and 996,000 cusecs respectively. At Head Marala, the flow is around 191,000 cusecs. Authorities have issued warnings for nearby communities to stay vigilant, as the situation remains critical.
The Sutlej River is also experiencing high flood levels at multiple locations. At Ganda Singh Wala, inflow is approximately 261,000 cusecs, and at Head Sulemanki, it is around 109,000 cusecs. In Chishtian, six embankments have been breached due to the strong currents, resulting in flooding of over 300 villages and damage to crops across more than 7,000 acres.
Local farmers have constructed an eight-kilometer-long embankment to safeguard their homes. However, officials warn that if this protective barrier fails, up to 20,000 houses could be at risk.The situation in Bahawalnagar has deteriorated, with over 105 villages affected and approximately 150,000 residents impacted by the floods. Nearly 90,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and many areas remain isolated. Rapid water flows have damaged temporary embankments, leading to the destruction of houses and standing crops.
Emergency response teams from Rescue 1122, the Pakistan Army, and district administrations are actively involved in evacuating residents and livestock to safer locations. Relief camps have been established, and emergency services remain on high alert. So far, more than 2,500 individuals and 1,700 animals have been relocated in affected regions.
Officials warn that the flood situation may worsen further within the next 24 hours, particularly in the Sutlej belt, as water inflows stay elevated. The government has urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate and adhere to safety guidelines while rescue operations continue.
