A double flood threat hangs over the districts of Multan and Muzaffargarh as the swollen Ravi and Chenab rivers converge near Khanewal, prompting provincial authorities to brace for an unprecedented disaster. Despite several controlled breaches over the past week, the threat persists.
Water levels at Muhammadwala and Sher Shah reached 412 feet, just five feet below the critical level. Authorities have declared the next 12 hours critical, as pressure continues to build at breaching points following the convergence of the Ravi and Chenab.
To protect urban centers along the eastern rivers, the Punjab government has employed a strategy of controlled breaches to relieve pressure on barrages and embankments. A decision on whether to breach at Head Muhammadwala, Sher Shah Flood Bund, and Rangpur – among 17 identified points – is expected within hours to safeguard Multan and Muzaffargarh.
The situation is exacerbated by a massive surge of approximately 550,000 cusecs that passed through Marala and Khanki Headworks, reaching Qadirabad Headworks at 530,000 cusecs. Officials predict this surge will reach Trimmu Headworks on Thursday and Multan by Friday.
“The next 12 hours are extremely critical,” stated a Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) official. “We face a dual threat: existing high water and a new, massive wave. All resources are being mobilized.”
Railway traffic to and from Karachi has been suspended from Faisalabad after a bridge on the Chenab River in Abdul Hakim was submerged.
Flood Warnings and Rising River Levels:
In a press conference, PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned of intensifying floods as three major Indian dams are expected to reach maximum capacity within 72 hours. He confirmed three separate flood warnings in the past 24 hours and noted that while the Chenab’s level is currently stable, previously affected areas may face renewed flooding. The Sutlej River remains in flood-like conditions, and the Ravi is rising at the Jassar monitoring point. The Ravi’s water is flowing backward, instead of merging with the Chenab, preventing a decrease in water levels.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited flood relief camps in Multan, directing assessments of damage and the provision of clean water, fumigation, and sanitation in relief camps.
As of Wednesday night, high flows were recorded at various headworks. The Ravi River showed a receding trend upstream, while other points stabilized. The Sutlej River system remained stable.
The flood has affected over 3.7 million people across Punjab, with 46 deaths and over 1.4 million residents and 1 million animals relocated. 409 flood camps provide aid to approximately 25,000 displaced persons.
