Torrential monsoon rains have caused major flooding in Punjab province, Pakistan, forcing the government to launch large-scale evacuations. The Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers are experiencing “high to very high” flooding, while the Indus River is at a “low flood” level. Over 24,000 people have been relocated from low-lying areas since Saturday.
The districts of Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Vehari, and Narowal are on high alert, with a flood alert issued following warnings from India. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has also issued a flood alert for Punjab, warning of potential flooding in the upper reaches of the rivers due to anticipated heavy rain in the next 48 hours. Urban flooding is also expected in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Gujranwala divisions.
A high-level flood warning has been issued for the Harike location on the Sutlej River, with upstream and downstream areas facing a critical situation. Water levels are expected to rise further in the Sutlej and adjacent rivers. While the Indus River shows low flood levels at Kalabagh and Chashma, the Sutlej shows high flood levels at Ganda Singh Wala and medium levels at Sulemanki. The Chenab River also shows medium flood levels at Marala and Khanki. Major reservoirs, including Tarbela Dam (full), Mangla Dam (76% full), and Indian dams Bhakra (80% full), Pong (87% full), and Thein (85% full), are closely monitored.
The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a separate flood alert for the River Ravi, citing a medium-level threat due to increased inflows at Thein Dam. The Ravi River at Kot Naina is currently discharging 64,000 cusecs, potentially causing low to medium floods at Jassar within 24 hours, with the risk of escalation to high flood levels depending on further rainfall and spillway releases.
Meanwhile, in Gilgit-Baltistan, thousands affected by earlier glacial and flash floods are awaiting government aid, facing shortages of essential supplies. The Gilgit-Shandur Road remains blocked, isolating several villages. The government is working to clear the road and construct an alternative route. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to visit Gilgit-Baltistan to assess the situation. In a separate event, the Prime Minister commended three local shepherds who issued a timely warning about a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), saving hundreds of lives.
