Lahore (Web Desk): The Flood Forecasting Division has reported an alarming surge in water levels in the Ravi and Sutlej rivers, with flood conditions reaching critical intensity in multiple locations. In contrast, the Chenab River at Qadirabad has seen a slight decline in discharge but continues to pose a serious threat due to persistently high flow.
As of 6 PM, water flow at Shahdara on the Ravi remained extremely high, recorded at 217,660 cusecs. Balloki registered a high flood with a flow of 104,435 cusecs, while Jassar noted a medium-level flood at 99,470 cusecs. Authorities have observed a steady rise in the Ravi’s levels, prompting increased vigilance, particularly over the next six hours.
On the Sutlej River, Ganda Singh Wala has been inundated with an exceptionally high flood, measuring 261,053 cusecs. Further downstream, Sulemanki is facing a medium flood situation at 113,124 cusecs, and the water level at Islam stands at 52,706 cusecs, which is considered a low flood.
Meanwhile, the Chenab River at Qadirabad is currently experiencing a very high flood, although the flow has receded from its earlier peak of 660,020 cusecs to 534,409 cusecs. At Khanki, the river continues to flow at high flood levels, with a discharge of 335,956 cusecs. Trimmu, however, remains stable with a normal water flow of 96,594 cusecs.
Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Director General, Irfan Ali Kathia, stated that the water level in the Ravi is expected to keep rising in the immediate future, especially impacting regions such as Kasur, Lahore, and Sahiwal. He emphasized that the next 24 hours are critical for these areas. According to Kathia, all relevant departments are actively engaged in emergency operations.
He also confirmed that some residential areas have been evacuated due to water entering housing societies, with floodwaters reportedly reaching up to four feet in certain locations.
Separately, A fresh flooding alert has been issued by the National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC), warning of potentially severe flood conditions along the Chenab and Ravi rivers in the coming days.
This alert stems from a combination of continuous upstream water inflows and ongoing monsoon rains, both of which are expected to significantly raise river water levels between August 31 and September 3.
According to the advisory, the Chenab River is likely to face extremely high water levels at several key points.
Authorities anticipate that floodwaters will reach Trimmu on Sunday afternoon, carrying an estimated discharge ranging between 700,000 and 800,000 cusecs.
This level of flow is considered dangerously high and poses a substantial risk to low-lying regions, particularly around Jhang and its adjacent areas. The flood is expected to move downstream in the following days, reaching Panjnad by Wednesday afternoon, where the water flow may slightly reduce but will remain hazardous, estimated between 650,000 and 700,000 cusecs.
Districts including Hafizabad, Chiniot, Multan, Panjnad, and Bahawalpur have been marked as vulnerable to flooding due to the projected river behavior.
Authorities have urged for early evacuation of susceptible communities near Athara Hazari, a known site for controlled breaches used to redirect excessive river flow during emergencies.
Meanwhile, the Ravi River is also expected to overflow from August 29 through September 1. Heavy rainfall in the upper basin and increased outflows from the Thein Dam have contributed to the rising water threat. It is predicted that the Ravi will arrive at Balloki by 7:00 a.m. on Friday with flows ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 cusecs. The river will continue downstream and is expected to reach Sidhnai by September 1, carrying an estimated discharge of 125,000 to 150,000 cusecs.
Several urban and rural regions in Punjab, including parts of Lahore, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Kasur, and Khanewal, are under high alert due to the flood threat from the Ravi. These areas are being closely monitored, and contingency plans are being activated.
In light of the evolving situation, the NEOC has called on residents living near rivers, streams, and drainage channels to remain on high alert, especially during periods of intense rainfall and overnight, when water levels can surge unexpectedly.
People are advised to prepare for possible evacuation orders, stay informed through official communication channels such as mobile alerts, TV broadcasts, and radio updates, and to make plans for protecting their property, livestock, and agricultural assets.
Citizens are also being urged to gather essential supplies, including food, clean water, and medications, to last between three and five days in the event of displacement.
The NEOC emphasizes the importance of early preparation and vigilance in minimizing the risk to life and property during this potentially dangerous period.