ISLAMABAD: India on Monday released additional water into the Sutlej river, raising fears of another round of heavy flooding downstream. Authorities in Pakistan have issued a high flood alert, particularly for areas below Harike and Ferozepur barrages.
According to official reports, the Indian High Commissioner informed Islamabad about the release at 8:00 am. A similar alert was shared a day earlier, signaling consistent pressure on the river system.
The flood stream, which has already caused devastation in central Punjab, is now heading towards south Punjab. It is expected to reach Sindh through the Punjnad headworks. At present, 543,579 cusecs of water are passing through Trimmu Barrage, while Head Punjnad is experiencing a high flood with 564,604 cusecs.
The Flood Forecasting Division warned that Punjab’s rivers are facing dangerous surges. The Ravi river recorded a high flood at Sidhnai with 123,168 cusecs, while Shahdara and Balloki are also inundated.
The Chenab river has swelled to alarming levels, with 543,000 cusecs at Head Trimmu and 145,000 cusecs each at Head Khanki and Qadirabad. However, the Sutlej river remains the most critical concern. Water flows reached 319,000 cusecs at Ganda Singh Wala and 564,000 cusecs at Head Punjnad, posing severe threats to nearby areas.
Officials have urged residents in vulnerable districts to remain cautious and follow evacuation guidelines. With the Sutlej river continuing to swell, flood management teams are on high alert to minimize damage and ensure public safety.
