A second flood surge released from India’s Salal Dam has entered Pakistan through the Chenab River, prompting authorities to step up monitoring and precautionary measures. Rising water levels have increased concerns in several downstream areas, where officials continue to assess the evolving situation.
According to the Punjab Irrigation Department, the latest flood wave has significantly raised the Chenab River’s water level. Moreover, officials warned that river flows could increase further as the surge continues moving downstream.
High-Level Flooding Reported at Head Marala
The Flood Forecasting Division confirmed that high-level flooding has been recorded at Head Marala, where the second flood surge entered Pakistan.
Authorities are closely monitoring downstream locations to determine whether water levels continue to rise. At the same time, disaster management teams remain on alert to respond quickly if conditions worsen.
The latest inflow follows recent monsoon rains that have already increased water levels across several rivers in Punjab. Consequently, authorities have expanded surveillance efforts to track the movement of floodwaters.
Monitoring Intensified Across Vulnerable Areas
Disaster management agencies have increased monitoring at major barrages and headworks. They are also using drone surveillance to observe flood movements and support emergency planning.
Officials aim to provide timely warnings and coordinate response measures if additional flooding threatens nearby communities.
Furthermore, district administrations have strengthened coordination with rescue agencies to ensure rapid action wherever required.
Low-Lying Areas Begin to Flood
Floodwater has started entering low-lying areas in Mianwali village of Chiniot district and nearby localities.
As a result, residents from several villages in Bhawana tehsil have begun relocating to safer locations. Authorities launched precautionary evacuations to reduce potential risks as water levels continue rising.
In Sambal village, floodwater has entered residential areas. Meanwhile, officials fear that ongoing riverbank erosion could cause further damage if the flood surge intensifies.
Water Levels Continue Rising Downstream
Further downstream, water levels continue to increase at Khanki Barrage in Wazirabad. Officials expect a major flood wave to pass through the area in the coming hours.
Therefore, authorities have started relocating residents from Rana Bahram, Loware Wala, and other nearby riverside settlements as a precaution.
Officials also reported low-level flooding in the Chenab River near Pindi Bhattian.
Meanwhile, elevated water levels around Jalalpur Bhattian have damaged standing rice and fodder crops. Consequently, concerns are growing over possible agricultural losses in affected areas.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
The Punjab Irrigation Department has directed district administrations to remain on high alert as the flood surge continues moving through the Chenab River system.
Officials warned that the situation could change rapidly because water levels may fluctuate as the flood wave travels downstream.
Residents living along the riverbanks have also been advised to closely follow official advisories and cooperate with local authorities and rescue agencies.
Authorities continue monitoring the situation around the clock while maintaining precautionary measures in vulnerable areas. Emergency teams remain prepared to respond if water levels rise beyond current forecasts.
