Lahore( The COW News Digital) Flood threats continue to escalate in Punjab as India has released additional water into the Sutlej River, raising concerns of high-level flooding in districts such as Harike and Ferozepur. Authorities have warned that the situation could worsen in the coming days.
The Indian High Commission informed Pakistan’s Ministry of Water Resources early Tuesday morning, alerting them to the flood surge expected from the upstream release. A similar high-volume water release had occurred the previous day, adding pressure on riverbanks and embankments.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has placed local administrations of districts adjoining the Sutlej on high alert. The Lower Harike and Lower Ferozepur areas are currently experiencing extreme flood conditions, with emergency measures being enforced to protect residents and property.
According to PDMA officials, the flow of water at Ganda Singh Wala on the Sutlej is recorded at 253,000 cusecs, while at Sulemanki, it is 124,000 cusecs. Meanwhile, a major flood surge from the Chenab River is moving toward southern Punjab, with flows measured at 96,000 cusecs at Marala, 120,000 cusecs at Khanki Headworks, and 135,000 cusecs at Qadirabad.
The Head Trimu site is experiencing extreme flooding, with water discharge reaching 516,000 cusecs and continuing to rise. The Ravi River also remains critical, with flows at 54,000 cusecs at Jassar and 60,000 cusecs at Shahdara. At the Bhuloki Headworks, water discharge is 137,000 cusecs, while Head Sidhani records 107,000 cusecs.
Relief Commissioner Punjab, Nabeel Javed, warned that until September 5, the rivers Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab may experience extreme flood levels due to continued rainfall in upper catchment areas, increasing the likelihood of unprecedented water surges downstream.
In response, the Punjab government, under directives from the Chief Minister, has ensured that all relevant departments remain on high alert. Evacuation plans, relief operations, and early warning systems are fully operational to safeguard lives and property.
Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, follow official instructions, and move to designated safe zones if needed. The government continues to coordinate with national and provincial disaster management teams to mitigate the impact of the severe flood threat.
