Pakistan is bracing for potential flooding after India released additional water into the Sutlej and Ravi rivers on Tuesday, raising water levels across Punjab and nearby regions.
Late Monday, authorities in India opened the gates of the Madhopur Dam, sending extra water downstream into the Sutlej River. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan confirmed it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local emergency teams.
Heavy Rain Forecasts Heighten Flood Risks
NDMA officials warned that continued heavy rainfall is expected across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. “The combination of dam releases and ongoing rains could exacerbate flooding,” a spokesperson said.
In Pakistan, the Ravi River has already seen a sudden rise in water levels, particularly at the Jassar point. Rescue 1122 teams evacuated 56 people stranded near riverbanks in Narowal, highlighting the urgency of the situation. A moderate flood is currently moving through Jassar and is expected to reach Shahdara later today.
Sutlej Hits Extreme Levels, Communities Submerged
The Sutlej River is experiencing a severe flood at Ganda Singh Wala, with water discharge surging to 195,000 cusecs. Large areas of farmland and residential neighborhoods in Uch Sharif, Arifwala, and Pakpattan have been inundated, displacing families and disrupting local life.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has instructed local authorities to prioritize evacuation and relief operations, ensuring that residents in the most affected areas are moved to safety.
Rising Water Levels in Lahore and Alerts for Chenab
The Flood Forecasting Division reports that both the Ravi and Sutlej rivers are steadily rising in Lahore. The Ravi is currently at medium flood level at Jassar, with a flow of 88,000 cusecs.
Authorities have also issued warnings for the Chenab River, as India may release additional water there in the coming days. In Phalia, emergency teams are on high alert, with 22 villages identified as particularly vulnerable. Residents in these areas are being urged to move to safer zones as a precaution.
