Large parts of Punjab and Sindh remain underwater as heavy floods from the Indus River continue to devastate communities. Rising waters have submerged villages, destroyed crops, and placed immense pressure on major barrages in Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri.
Authorities are conducting relief and rescue operations, shifting thousands of residents to safer areas. In Muzaffargarh and Alipur, several villages are submerged, with the Punjab government leading rescue and aid efforts.
In Sindh, floodwaters from the Indus River are straining barrages. In Kachha, many villages are fully underwater, forcing families to evacuate urgently. The situation has raised concerns as water levels are expected to rise further within 24 hours.
Situation at Key Barrages
The Irrigation Department reported fluctuating water flows across major barrages. Guddu Barrage recorded an inflow of 635,000 cusecs and outflow of 606,000 cusecs. Sukkur Barrage recorded 538,000 cusecs inflow and 485,736 cusecs outflow. Kotri Barrage showed 278,000 cusecs inflow and 267,000 cusecs outflow. At Panjnad, inflow dropped by 60,000 cusecs, standing at 307,000 cusecs.
Villages Submerged, Crops Destroyed
In Manjhand and Aliabad, vast agricultural lands are underwater, leaving crops destroyed. A tragic incident occurred near Manjhand, where a young man drowned in floodwaters. In Ghotki and Kashmore, currents struck embankments at Qadirpur Shankar and Ronti Bachao, forcing mass evacuations.
Government Response
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz rejected claims of inaction, stating that her cabinet is monitoring operations at relief camps. In Bahawalnagar, a tent city even provided children with a large screen to watch the Pakistan vs India Asia Cup match.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah warned that inflows may reach 650,000 to 700,000 cusecs, far above initial estimates. He urged federal support through the Benazir Income Support Programme.
Impact on Dams and Water Storage
Despite destruction, monsoon rains have boosted Pakistanβs water reserves. Tarbela and Chashma dams have reached full capacity, while Mangla has only four feet left before hitting its limit. Total usable storage now exceeds 12.9 million acre feet.
The ongoing crisis shows how destructive the Indus River can become during floods, putting lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure at risk.
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