MULTAN – The Multan-Sukkur Motorway (M-5) remained closed for traffic on Monday near Jalalpur Pirwala after heavy flooding caused serious damage.
According to officials, cracks appeared on the motorway as floodwater passed underneath, raising safety concerns. Due to this situation, the Uch Sharif highway has also been closed for all types of traffic.
Motorway Police spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmed said that traffic is being diverted to alternate routes. For northbound vehicles, the diversion includes Uch Sharif, Jhangra, and Jalalpur interchanges. Meanwhile, southbound traffic is redirected through Shah Shams, Sher Shah, and Shujabad South.
The spokesperson added that Motorway Police teams are present on-site to guide road users. The SP Motorway Police is also monitoring the situation closely along with his team.
On Sunday, the National Highway Authority (NHA) had officially announced the closure of the M-5 near Jalalpur Pirwala, citing flood threats. Sources confirmed that erosion caused by heavy floodwater raised concerns about a possible breach.
Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said emergency measures are being carried out. Sandbags and stones are being placed at weak points to strengthen the motorway structure. He expressed hope that the situation would improve as flood levels are expected to decline within the next 24 hours.
Officials reported that water discharge at Panjnad has already dropped to 392,000 cusecs, showing signs of gradual improvement. However, authorities remain alert until conditions stabilize.
The M-5 Motorway is a vital link connecting Multan to Sukkur, and its closure has affected thousands of commuters and transporters. Authorities have urged travelers to use alternative routes until further notice.
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