Authorities in Punjab have decided to carry out a controlled breach at the Sher Shah embankment in Multan to manage rising waters of the Chenab River. The measure aims to protect urban areas as southern Punjab continues to face devastating floods that have displaced thousands of people.
According to the irrigation department, a water flow of more than 540,000 cusecs from Trimmu is expected to reach Multan soon. At Sher Shah, levels have already touched 400,000 cusecs. Officials confirmed that nearby settlements have been warned, and evacuation announcements are being made to ensure safety.
“Riverbed areas are already flooded, and the breach is necessary due to insufficient capacity to hold more water,” an irrigation official said.
City Police Officer Sadiq Ali Dogar announced that both rail and road traffic would be suspended once the breach is carried out. Rail service on the Multan–Kundian–Rawalpindi route will stop, while Muzaffargarh Road will also remain closed. He urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate immediately to avoid a situation similar to Jalalpur Pirwala.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has also raised alarms. Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stated that Multan has been under severe flood pressure for the last two days, with the coming 48 hours expected to be critical. Emergency teams, including 50 boats and five drones, have been deployed for rescue operations.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for Multan, Layyah, Khanewal, Vehari, Bahawalpur, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan. Districts in Sindh and Balochistan are also on high alert.
In Rahim Yar Khan, a boat carrying flood victims capsized, leaving five dead, while another drowning incident in Jalalpur Pirwala claimed four lives.
Rescue 1122 reported evacuating 2,343 people from Multan in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to over 10,800 so far. With pressure on dams and embankments increasing, authorities continue to work around the clock to prevent further disaster.
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