The floodwaters of the Sutlej River have surged in southern Punjab, submerging dozens of low-lying villages, damaging crops, and forcing thousands of residents to camp outside their homes.

Despite repeated warnings, many families are refusing to move to relief camps, citing fears of theft and inadequate government support.

Bahawalpur: Homes underwater, families on rooftops

Flood levels in Bahawalpur rose sharply on Wednesday, submerging most low-lying areas along the Sutlej. In Basti Veslan, dozens of houses have been swallowed by floodwaters, forcing residents to place essential belongings on rooftops.

Also Read: India releases more water; Sutlej, Chenab on very high flood alert

“We cannot leave our homes because our goods will be stolen,” said one distressed resident, explaining why families prefer to camp outside their houses instead of shifting to government relief camps.

Lodhran: 40 villages impacted, hundreds of acres at risk

The flood threat has escalated in Lodhran, where water flow in the Sutlej has reached 80,000 cusecs, putting nearly 40 villages at risk.

Local farmer Aslam said he and his neighbours tried to protect their lands by tying makeshift embankments: “With the help of friends, we saved our crops and lives by building a small dam,” he shared.

Despite these efforts, officials fear that hundreds of acres of farmland could be wiped out if water levels continue to rise.

Alipur: Floodwaters surround settlements near Panjnad

In Alipur, floodwater entering from Head Panjnad has inundated several settlements, including Basti Nakhli, Makhan Bela, Lashari, Shukrani, and Jagir Kandrala.

Frustrated residents complain of being left alone to fend for themselves. “There is no help from the administration,” said villagers, as they struggled to protect their homes and livestock.

Also Read: 30 killed, over 350,000 affected as floods ravage Indian Punjab, north

Authorities have warned that a large wave of water is expected to reach Panjnad Barrage within two days, further heightening the risk for surrounding communities.

Relief efforts under scrutiny

While emergency alerts have been issued, locals in all three districts -- Bahawalpur, Lodhran, and Alipur -- accuse authorities of failing to provide adequate rescue and relief. The lack of trust in government facilities has left many families clinging to their properties in flood-hit areas instead of seeking safer shelter.