Punjab on High Alert as Rising River Levels Threaten Flooding Across Region
LAHORE – The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high alert as major rivers in the province continue to swell due to ongoing monsoon rains and accelerated glacier melt. The situation is being closely monitored, with warnings issued for potential flooding in several districts.
Rising Water Levels in Major Rivers
According to the latest PDMA update, the Chenab River at Marala is witnessing high flood levels with water inflow recorded at 206,000 cusecs and outflow at 179,000 cusecs.
The Indus River is also under pressure, with low-level flooding observed at:
-
Tarbela: Inflow – 286,000 cusecs, Outflow – 270,000 cusecs
-
Kalabagh: Inflow – 300,000 cusecs
-
Chashma: Inflow – 345,000 cusecs
-
Taunsa: Inflow – 310,000 cusecs
The PDMA warned that the Sutlej, Ravi, and Jhelum rivers—currently at normal levels—could see a dangerous rise in the coming days due to more rainfall.
Urban Flooding Forecast for Key Cities
Heavy rain is forecast in several areas including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Mandi Bahauddin, and Jhelum. Urban flooding is particularly likely in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala, according to the Met Office.
Reservoirs and Cross-Border Water Management
-
Mangla Dam: 57% full
-
Tarbela Dam: 87% full
-
Indian dams on rivers Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi are reportedly at 43% capacity, sparking concerns about potential water releases into Pakistan.
The PDMA has instructed district administrations to remain vigilant and activate flood response plans where needed. Emergency operation centers are working round-the-clock to respond to any situation.
Monsoon Rainfall and Casualties
This year’s fifth monsoon spell is expected to last until July 31, with significant rainfall already recorded:
-
Jhelum: 83 mm
-
Rawalpindi: 81 mm
-
Mandi Bahauddin: 49 mm
-
Mangla: 48 mm
-
Gujrat: 42 mm
-
Gujranwala & Sialkot: 39 mm each
-
Dera Ghazi Khan: 33 mm
Sadly, the heavy rains have already claimed 162 lives in Punjab this year, with 563 injuries, 214 homes damaged, and 121 livestock deaths. Most casualties occurred due to roof collapses and electrocution.
The Punjab government has announced compensation packages for affected families and financial support for farmers who suffered crop losses.
Public Advisory
The PDMA has urged the public to:
-
Avoid bathing in rivers or canals
-
Refrain from unnecessary travel during heavy rain
-
Stay informed via local authorities and weather alerts
For the latest updates and safety instructions, residents are advised to stay tuned to official PDMA channels and local news sources.
