Exceptionally high flood situation persists due to rising water level in Chenab, Ravi rivers: PDMA Punjab

Lahore (Web Desk): The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has reported an exceptionally high flood situation in the Ravi River at Head Sidhnai, where the upstream flow has reached 168,000 cusecs.

The Director General of PDMA stated that to protect major cities and vital installations, controlled breaches were carried out at Head Sidhnai.

He explained that two intentional cuts were made at the Mai Safforan bund to minimize the risk of widespread destruction.

At the same time, the Chenab River is witnessing a continuous rise in water levels. The discharge at Head Marala has climbed to 384,000 cusecs, while the flow at Khanki has reached 297,000 cusecs. At Qadirabad, the water level was recorded at 213,000 cusecs, and at Head Muhammad Wala, it stood at 411,000 cusecs.

Rescue and relief measures are also underway in Burewala, Vehari, Mailsi, Lodhran, Kehror Pacca, and Jalal Pur Pirwala, where severe flooding in the Sutlej River has already caused hardship for large segments of the local population in South Punjab.

Meanwhile, the PDMA has reported that severe flooding in the Ravi, Sutlej and Chenab rivers has devastated more than 3,300 villages across Punjab.

Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed stated that over 3.36 million people have been affected by the disaster and 43 lives have been lost.

He added that more than 1.2 million individuals have been rescued and shifted to safer areas, while over 400 relief and medical camps along with 385 veterinary camps have been established in the affected districts. Nearly 800,000 animals were also relocated to secure locations during the rescue efforts.

The relief commissioner further informed that Mangla Dam has reached 83 percent of its capacity, while Tarbela Dam is now filled to its maximum level.

Moreover, on the direction of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a tent city has been set up in Pakpattan for the displaced population. The camp includes a red-carpeted reception area and provides breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as free fodder for livestock.

Medical facilities, mosquito control sprays and sanitation services are also active at the site.

Families affected by the flooding have expressed satisfaction with the provision of food, shelter and care for their animals. The Punjab CM has also sent gifts for the displaced families.