Massive floods and torrential rains continue to cause destruction across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Gilgit-Baltistan. Authorities are carrying out mass evacuations as millions face displacement. Sindh remains on high alert, with more than 1.65 million people now considered at risk of flooding along the Indus River.
Punjab Battles Unprecedented Flood Crisis
Punjab is experiencing one of the worst hydrological crises in recent memory. Continuous inflows from the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab rivers are threatening major cities, agricultural land, and infrastructure. Controlled breaches of protective dykes have been executed along the Chenab River to divert water and protect critical barrages, bridges, and urban centres.
At Rivaz Bridge, water levels reached 524.20 feet, close to the dangerous threshold of 526 feet. Several headworks, including Marala, Khanki, and Trimmu, reported water flows exceeding 180,000 cusecs. The Sutlej River at Ganda Singh Wala alone recorded flows over 253,000 cusecs.
Officials warned that floodwaters from the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab will merge at Head Panjnad by September 4. The combined volume may exceed 900,000 cusecs, posing a severe threat downstream. Authorities estimate the flood peak could reach Guddu Barrage by September 6.
Evacuation operations are in full swing. In Multan Division alone, over 261,000 people and more than 255,000 livestock were relocated. Across Punjab, croplands covering more than 500,000 acres have been damaged.
Sindh Braces for Displacement
Sindh authorities revised their estimates, projecting more than 1.65 million people could be displaced due to rising Indus River levels. The government identified 1,651 villages and 167 union councils at high risk. Preparations include setting up relief camps and reinforcing barrages to withstand the incoming flood wave.
Torrential Rains Trigger Urban Flooding in KP
Heavy rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa resulted in urban flooding in Peshawar and nearby districts. Budhni Nullah overflowed, submerging low-lying areas and damaging homes. Rescue 1122 reported the death of a minor in Peshawar after a roof collapse. Another person sustained injuries from a wall collapse.
Rescue teams evacuated over 300 residents, using rubber boats to prioritize the elderly, women, and children. Flash floods in Jamrud washed away part of the Peshawar-Torkham Highway, halting traffic and delaying Afghan repatriations for several hours. Lakki Marwat also witnessed dramatic rescues, with two dozen students saved from rising waters.
Glacial Melt Raises Alarm in Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghizer district faces rising risks due to accelerated glacier melt. Temperatures in Yasin Valley’s Darkut area reached 35°C, triggering warnings of potential glacial lake outburst floods. Residents reported dire living conditions, with damaged schools, blocked roads, and a lack of clean water.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasts more heavy rainfall in upper catchments of the Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas rivers until September 3. Authorities continue to warn of exceptionally high flood levels, urging residents in vulnerable areas to relocate immediately.
With floodwaters rising and infrastructure under threat, Pakistan faces a prolonged humanitarian and environmental crisis. The situation demands sustained relief efforts and long-term planning to safeguard communities from repeated flooding disasters.
