Authorities in Lahore and other parts of Punjab have declared a high alert as rising river levels increase the threat of a major flood. The situation worsened after heavy monsoon rains and the release of water from India’s Thein and Madhopur dams pushed water levels to alarming highs.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers are flowing at dangerous levels.
Officials reported that the Ravi is carrying up to 2.5 lakh cusecs near Kot Naina and Jassar, while the Chenab has swelled to 7.79 lakh cusecs at Head Marala. In Shakargarh, streams such as Nilah Bainsi and Nilah Deer have overflowed, submerging nearby villages.
Protective embankments have also suffered breaches in Okara and Burewala, flooding farmlands and residential areas.
In recent days, record rainfall in Sialkot and surrounding districts has already caused serious damage. Several houses collapsed, leaving families homeless, while thousands remain stranded in flood-hit zones.
In Lahore, heavy rain has damaged infrastructure, disrupted transportation, and created risks of urban flooding. Authorities have urged citizens to limit unnecessary travel and be prepared for emergency evacuations.
Rescue operations are underway across Punjab. District administrations, along with the army, Rangers, police, and relief agencies, are actively relocating residents. So far, nearly 150,000 people have been shifted to safer areas.
Relief camps have been set up, providing food, shelter, and medical care to affected families.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed federal and provincial institutions to remain on high alert. He stressed that rescue teams must respond quickly to protect lives and property.
Residents living in low-lying areas of Lahore and nearby regions have been advised to move to higher ground.
Officials warn that the next 48 hours will be crucial, as more heavy rainfall is expected in Lahore and other districts. This could intensify the flood situation, causing further damage if precautionary measures are not strictly followed.
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