The Punjab flood crisis has reached alarming levels as the Sutlej River recorded its highest water levels since 1955. Over 350,000 cusecs of water entered Kasur in just a few hours putting downstream districts in life-threatening danger. Authorities are urging residents to evacuate immediately from vulnerable areas.
PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said the sudden rise in water is mainly due to heavy inflows from India. At Ganda Singh Wala in Kasur, officials witnessed historic water levels forcing authorities to intentionally breach the RR Bund embankment to protect densely populated neighborhoods. “People living in likely submerged areas are being moved to safety,” Kathia added.
The flood has spread across Punjab with Shahdara and Balloki experiencing surging water levels. Okara and Sahiwal districts have already started evacuations. While the Ravi floodplain remains safe for now, areas like Pakpattan could face risks if water continues to rise. At Qadirabad Headworks, water levels reached 1.077 million cusecs, submerging at least ten villages in Mandi Bahauddin. Kathia said this is unprecedented in Pakistan as three rivers are merging simultaneously.
Authorities have warned about high-risk areas including Head Sulemanki, Head Islam, and Kabirwala. Inflows via Panjnad and Trimmu Barrage are also being monitored closely. Officials hope downstream structures can handle the pressure.
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So far, 28 people have died in the floods. PDMA teams are carrying out continuous rescue operations to save residents. Punjab’s Relief Commissioner explained that controlled breaching of embankments was necessary to prevent larger disasters and assured that all government resources are being used to protect lives and property.
Officials stress that this crisis highlights the need for stronger flood management. Kathia noted, “Three rivers merging at once is a challenge we have never faced before.” Steps will be taken to strengthen embankments and improve drainage to prevent such disasters in the future.
