Punjab flood: Ravi River at Shahdara reaches dangerous 215,000 cusecs

The flood crisis in Punjab has intensified as water levels in major rivers continue to rise. At Shahdara, the Ravi River has reached a dangerous 215,000 cusecs, prompting urgent warnings from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).

Meanwhile, in Bahawalpur, the Sutlej River has overflowed at the Empress Bridge, with water entering residential settlements after a dam breach.

Rising water levels in Ravi River

The PDMA confirmed that a “very high flood level” is passing through Shahdara, where the Ravi River’s flow has touched 215,000 cusecs. Officials have attributed the surge to Indian water releases, warning that the situation could worsen if inflows continue.

Floodwaters have already reached Farrukhabad, inundating low-lying areas. Despite the danger, crowds of Lahore residents have gathered at the Ravi Bridge to witness the rising river, with many busy taking selfies. 

Rescue teams and the Punjab government are carrying out relief operations, urging residents of riverbelt areas to move to safer locations.

Sutlej River floods Bahawalpur settlements

In Bahawalpur, the Sutlej River is swelling at the Empress Bridge, where continuous water inflows have caused land erosion. A breach at the Arghi Dam in Basti Yousaf Wala and Ahmed Wala has allowed floodwater to enter homes, forcing families to evacuate. 

Also Read: Punjab flood: Mass evacuations, as rising river levels threaten cities

The district administration and Rescue 1122 teams are actively engaged in protective measures and relief efforts. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain cautious and cooperate with evacuation teams.

Govt response and ongoing relief

The Punjab government has mobilised emergency resources, setting up flood relief centers and deploying rescue boats to affected regions. Officials stressed that all departments remain on high alert, with continuous monitoring of river flows and flood-prone settlements. 

Also Read: Rivers Ravi, Chenab and Sutlej face extraordinary flooding; NDMA issues high alert

Authorities have once again appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary visits to riverbanks and follow safety advisories to prevent accidents.