F.P. Report
ISLAMABAD: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a high-level flood alert after the Indian High Commission informed Pakistan about rising water levels in the Sutlej River.
Officials warn that the river’s flow is expected to increase further, creating a serious risk of major flooding in the coming days.
India shares flood situation
According to the Ministry of Water Resources, the Indian High Commission shared details of flooding at two points in the Sutlej River — Harike downstream and Ferozepur downstream. Both locations are currently experiencing high-level flooding, prompting an immediate alert for Pakistani authorities.
Instead of using the Indus Water Commission, India conveyed the warning through diplomatic channels. Pakistani officials criticized this as a continued violation of the Indus Water Treaty, accusing the Modi government of not adhering to the agreed mechanism.
Pakistan issues alert
Following India’s communication, PDMA Punjab directed all institutions to remain vigilant.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said the civil administration, Pakistan Army, and other departments concerned have been placed on high alert to ensure quick response.
“The protection of life and property of citizens should be ensured at all costs,” DG Kathia emphasized, adding that emergency measures are already underway in flood-prone areas.
Risk of major flooding
Officials fear that the rising inflows from India could trigger another wave of major flooding in the Sutlej River, threatening low-lying regions along its course in Punjab.
Local authorities have been asked to strengthen embankments and prepare evacuation plans in case water levels continue to rise in the coming days.
Rising river levels across Punjab
According to PDMA Punjab, monsoon rains are forecast to continue until September 9 in most districts of the province, raising further flood risks. Current water flows recorded in major rivers are as follows:
- Chenab River: 115,000 cusecs at Marala, 205,000 cusecs at Khanki, 266,000 cusecs at Qadirabad, and 331,000 cusecs at Head Trimon.
- Ravi River: 73,000 cusecs at Jassar, 112,000 cusecs at Shahdara, 114,000 cusecs at Siphon Rail Headworks, 144,000 cusecs at Balloki Headworks, and 122,000 cusecs at Head Sidhnai.
- Sutlej River: 319,000 cusecs at Ganda Singh Wala, 142,000 cusecs at Sulemanki, and 310,000 cusecs at Panjand Headworks.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid going near rivers for recreation, as water levels continue to rise.
Human losses and damage
Punjab’s Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed confirmed that 49 people have lost their lives due to drowning in floodwaters, as the PDMA releases its report on flood damages.
More than 3,900 villages across Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab river belts have been affected, with a staggering 3.89 million people impacted by the floods. Of these, 1.83 million people have been shifted to safer locations through ongoing relief operations.
