Satellite imagery has revealed rapid urban expansion into the River Ravi’s floodplain near Lahore. The findings have raised concerns about increasing flood risks during extreme monsoon events. Moreover, experts warn that shrinking floodplains reduce the river’s ability to absorb excess water. The analysis covers changes observed over the past 35 years.
Satellite Images Show Significant Urban Encroachment
Official satellite imagery released by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) compares Landsat images from 1990 and 2025. The comparison shows Lahore has expanded significantly towards the Ravi floodplain. Previously, urban settlements remained farther from the river, while farmland dominated the surrounding landscape.
However, the latest images reveal widespread development along the riverbanks and former agricultural land. According to Suparco, unplanned urban growth has narrowed the floodplain considerably. Consequently, the river now has less space to absorb floodwaters during heavy monsoon rains.
The agency warned that floodwaters could more easily overflow riverbanks and damage nearby communities. Therefore, it recommended stricter enforcement of floodplain zoning laws and protection of the river’s natural right-of-way.
Experts Call for Better Planning and River Protection
The issue has become more significant following changes to cross-border water management. Since India suspended communication under the Indus Waters Treaty in 2025, Pakistan has not received advance flood data for the Ravi. As a result, authorities no longer receive early warnings about sudden changes in river flows.
Meanwhile, a Punjab Irrigation Department report stated the officially notified Ravi floodplain covered about 230 square kilometres in 2016. Officials said recent flooding effectively expanded the floodplain by around three square kilometres.
Experts stressed that rivers naturally change course over time. UET Lahore’s Prof Dr Noor Muhammad said proper hydrological studies should guide any river channelisation projects.
Environmental lawyer Ahmad Rafay Alam also urged authorities to strengthen flood protection while preserving green spaces and regulating development along the river corridor.
