India has released a massive amount of water into the Ravi and Chenab rivers without prior notice, leading to devastating floods across Punjab.
This sudden surge of water has submerged thousands of villages and affected vast swaths of farmland, causing widespread destruction.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has reported that water levels at the Qadirabad Barrage on the Chenab River are rising rapidly. Additionally, a flow of 40,000 to 50,000 cusecs of water is expected at Shahdara in the Ravi River.
In response to this alarming situation, the PDMA has issued a low-level flood warning for the Ravi River, advising residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate to safer locations.
The sudden release of water by India has sparked concerns of significant flooding in Punjab’s rivers and canals. The PDMA has warned that the water level in the Chenab River could increase to between 200,000 and 250,000 cusecs, potentially leading to a high-level flood within the next 24 hours.
In response to the crisis, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed all relevant departments to remain on high alert. She has also ordered continuous monitoring of flood-prone areas, including Narowal, Sialkot, Shakargarh, and other cities.
Tragically, the floods have already claimed lives. In Zafarwal, near Narowal, three young men drowned in a flooded canal. Rescue teams have recovered the bodies of two of the victims, while the search for the third is underway. The victims were residents of the village of Nangal Sudkan.
Meanwhile, a low-level flood has been declared in Sehwan, where floodwaters have inundated uncultivated land and several villages. Approximately 300,000 cusecs of water are currently flowing towards the Kotri Barrage from the Indus River, further escalating the risk of widespread flooding.
As the situation continues to unfold, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has emphasized the need for vigilance and prompt action to mitigate the impact of the floods. She has urged authorities to prioritize the safety of residents and ensure that relief efforts are swiftly implemented.
