Punjab on High Alert as Monsoon Floods Surge: Over 174,000 Evacuated
August 27, 2025
Heavy monsoon rains, combined with the release of water from dams in India, have pushed rivers in Punjab, Pakistan, to dangerous levels, prompting mass evacuations and emergency response measures.
Residents are using boats to reach safety in flooded areas near the Sutlej River in Hakuwala village, Kasur district. Authorities warn that the next 48 hours will be critical as rivers continue to swell.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a “very high to exceptionally high” flood warning for Lahore and surrounding districts. Rising water levels in the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers have caused breaches in several areas, including Narowal, Sialkot, and Shakargarh. In Zafarwal, part of Hanjli Bridge collapsed under the pressure of Nullah Dek, cutting off road access to dozens of villages.
Officials say India has released additional water from its Thein and Madhopur dams, increasing flood risks in Punjab. The Ravi at Jassar is carrying 170,000 cusecs of water and could rise to 250,000 cusecs by morning. The Chenab at Marala may reach 690,000 cusecs, while the Sutlej at Ganda Singh Wala is already at 245,000 cusecs.
Rescue and Relief Operations
Authorities have called in the army to support civil rescue teams in six districts, including Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Narowal, and Okara. Rescue 1122, civil defence, police, and local administrations are on the ground, helping evacuate people from low-lying areas.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to accelerate rescue operations, particularly along the rivers, and ensure the timely provision of food, medicine, and shelter to affected residents. Relief camps have been set up in vulnerable areas with arrangements for essential supplies.
Deputy Commissioner Saba Asghar Ali reported that 16 villages near the Indian border remain at risk, while over 174,000 people have already been evacuated from flood-hit districts along the Sutlej River.
Impact and Warnings
The ongoing monsoon, coupled with climate-change-driven heavier rainfall in eastern rivers, has intensified flooding this season. Since late June, Pakistan has reported 802 flood-related deaths, with half occurring this month alone. Indian Kashmir has also been affected, with at least 68 deaths reported this month.
Authorities continue to urge residents to stay vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow instructions from local rescue teams as rivers remain at dangerously high levels.
