Punjab on High Alert as Ravi and Sutlej Rivers Breach Dangerous Levels
Punjab is facing a worsening flood emergency, with water levels in key rivers surging to dangerous heights and displacing communities across the province.
Ravi River Surges at Shahdara
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued urgent warnings after the Ravi River at Shahdara reached a perilous 215,000 cusecs—a “very high flood level,” according to officials. Authorities blame sudden water releases from India for the spike and caution that inflows could rise further.
Floodwaters have already swept through Farrukhabad and surrounding low-lying areas, triggering evacuation alerts. However, in Lahore, crowds have been spotted gathering on the Ravi Bridge to watch the turbulent waters, with many stopping to take photos despite official safety warnings.
Rescue teams are on the ground, helping families from vulnerable riverbelt settlements relocate to safer areas.
Sutlej River Breach Forces Evacuations in Bahawalpur
In Bahawalpur, the situation is equally dire. Continuous inflows have pushed the Sutlej River past safe limits at Empress Bridge, causing significant erosion. A breach at the Arghi Dam has allowed water to spill into nearby villages, flooding homes in Basti Yousaf Wala and Ahmed Wala. Residents are being evacuated as authorities race to reinforce embankments.
Local administration teams, along with Rescue 1122, are distributing relief supplies and coordinating evacuations. Families in flood-prone areas have been urged to remain alert and follow official instructions.
Emergency Measures in Place
The Punjab government has declared a high alert, mobilizing rescue boats, setting up temporary shelters, and monitoring river flows around the clock. Officials have repeatedly appealed to citizens to stay away from riverbanks and comply with evacuation orders to avoid casualties.
With monsoon inflows expected to continue, authorities warn that the situation may worsen in the coming days, making public cooperation critical.
