ISLAMABAD: Monsoon rains caused widespread damage in Punjab today as three embankments breached, which flooded villages, damaging homes and submerging thousands of acres of farmland. The embankments breaches occurred at Khohar along the River Jhelum near Sarai Alamgir, Nallah Dek near Kalakhatai and the River Chenab at Katchay Gurna near Pindi Bhattian.
According to officials, the breach at Khohar caused severe riverbank erosion and swept away several kanals of land. Residents warned that nearby settlements could face greater risks without immediate protective measures.
Near Kalakhatai, floodwater from the River Ravi submerged a railway track after the Nallah Dek embankment collapsed. Thousands of acres of rice crops were also inundated, while floodwater blocked connecting roads.
At Katchay Gurna, intense erosion along the River Chenab destroyed several houses and agricultural land. Affected residents appealed for urgent relief and stronger flood protection.
Meanwhile, families living near rivers have started moving to safer locations. Communities also urged authorities to build protective embankments without delay.
Floodwater from Nallah Dek also damaged rice fields in Khushhal Pura near Muridke. Residents said crops worth millions of rupees were destroyed across hundreds of acres.
They blamed poor drainage maintenance and called for an investigation into alleged misuse of funds allocated for drainage projects.
Rivers rise as authorities issue fresh warnings
Meanwhile, water levels continued rising in the Indus River. Low-level flooding was recorded at Guddu Barrage in Kashmore after inflows increased by 65,699 cusecs in one day.
The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority reported low-level flooding at Kalabagh, Chashma and Taunsa. It also recorded medium-level flooding at Sadhnai on the River Ravi.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecast thunderstorms and rain in Islamabad and other areas. Authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and remain cautious in low-lying areas.
