The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has sounded alarm over the worsening flood crisis in Punjab after the Sutlej River recorded historic water levels not seen since 1955.
Authorities confirmed that more than 350,000 cusecs of water crossed into Kasur within a few hours, creating a “life-threatening” situation for downstream districts.
Record water flow in Sutlej River
Speaking to the media on Friday, PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia said the sudden surge in water is the direct result of inflows from India. At Kasur’s Ganda Singh Wala, officials reported “historic flow,” forcing authorities to deliberately breach the RR Bund embankment to divert water and save densely populated areas.
“The settlements likely to be submerged are already being evacuated,” Kathia said, adding that water levels will continue to rise significantly over the next three days.
Flood situation spreads across Punjab
The official confirmed that a massive flood wave passed through Shahdara, raising water volumes at Balloki, which are expected to swell further in the coming days.
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Okara and Sahiwal administrations have already begun evacuations.
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The Ravi floodplain remains clear for now, but inflows could threaten Pakpattan and adjacent areas.
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At Qadirabad Headworks, nearly 1.077 million cusecs were recorded, submerging at least 10 villages in Mandi Bahauddin.
“This is the first time in Pakistan’s history that we are facing such a massive disaster with three rivers merging at once,” the DG PDMA stressed.
Risk zones identified
Authorities warned of potential threats at multiple points along Punjab’s river system:
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Head Sulemanki and Head Islam face severe pressure.
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Kabirwala is likely to receive floodwater within the next 36 hours.
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Panjnad via Bahawalpur could also see inflows, though officials say the risk will reduce once the water disperses.
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At Trimmu Barrage, water levels are rising steadily, but officials hope downstream structures will withstand the pressure.
Fatalities and rescue operations
According to the PDMA, at least 28 people have lost their lives in the ongoing floods. However, timely rescue operations have helped prevent even greater tragedy. “Figures are changing every hour, but our rescue teams are working relentlessly,” Kathia said.
Punjab’s Relief Commissioner acknowledged that breaches had to be made in certain embankments to save cities. “There was no other possibility of draining water without controlled breaching,” he said, assuring that all government resources are being mobilized to protect lives and property.
Long-term measures
Officials stressed that the current disaster has exposed the urgent need for improved flood management systems. “For the first time in our history, three rivers have converged, creating an unprecedented challenge,” the PDMA DG noted.
The Punjab relief commissioner added, “We will take steps to strengthen embankments and improve the sewage system to prevent such devastation in the future.”
