Monsoon and Cross-Border Discharges Intensify Crisis
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of “very high to exceptionally high” flood risks across Punjab. Heavy monsoon rains and India’s water discharges from multiple dams have pushed rivers to dangerous levels. Authorities have sought urgent army assistance in six districts, including Lahore, Kasur, and Sialkot.
Rivers Breach Embankments, Villages Submerged
Floodwaters surged in the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej, causing breaches in Narowal, Sialkot, and Shakargarh. A section of Hanjli Bridge in Zafarwal collapsed after Nullah Dek overflowed, cutting road access to nearby villages. NDMA officials said vulnerable areas face immediate danger as water volumes rise rapidly.
Critical Next 48 Hours
At Jassar, the Ravi carried 170,000 cusecs and could reach 250,000 cusecs by morning, overwhelming protective embankments. The Chenab at Marala may surge to 690,000 cusecs, while the Sutlej at Ganda Singh Wala already swelled with 245,000 cusecs. Officials stressed the next 48 hours will be decisive in controlling the crisis.
India’s Dam Releases Worsen Situation
Pakistan received two warnings from India about water releases from Madhopur and Thein dams. Thein Dam is 97% full, raising concerns of uncontrolled discharge. India routinely releases excess water when dams reach capacity, with flows entering Pakistan’s eastern rivers. Punjab officials say these releases, combined with heavy rainfall, pose a grave threat.
Evacuations and Relief Efforts
Rescue teams, police, and civil defence continue evacuations from low-lying villages. Boats are shifting families from submerged areas near the rivers. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to accelerate operations and ensure food, tents, and medical supplies reach affected communities. Relief camps with washrooms and medicines have been established in Pasrur and other high-risk areas.
Army Deployed in Six Districts
Punjab’s Home Department requested federal approval for army deployment. Military troops are now assisting civil authorities in six flood-hit districts. Officials admitted resources of local rescue teams are stretched thin.
Rising Death Toll Nationwide
Since late June, floods have killed 802 people in Pakistan, half during August alone. In Indian Kashmir, 68 deaths have been recorded this month. Gilgit-Baltistan faced accelerated glacial melting, while Karachi endured severe flooding last week.
Climate Change Intensifies Rainfall
Punjab Irrigation Minister Kazim Raza Pirzada warned that climate change has worsened rainfall in eastern rivers. Authorities expect further heavy showers in Punjab and Pakistani Kashmir in the next 12 to 24 hours.
