Unprecedented Water Release Sparks Alarm – Punjab Faces Worst Flood Threat after India Releases water in River Ravi
Punjab is going through one of the most severe flood situations ever experienced in recent times following India’s release of almost 200,000 cusecs of water into the Ravi River, overloading already full rivers beyond their usable limits. After days of continuous monsoon rains, the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers have now broken their banks, flooding surrounding low-lying regions and sending authorities into emergency mode.
Water inflow at Khanki Head Works on the Chenab River crossed a record 1 million cusecs, far more than its designed capacity of 800,000 cusecs. This massive influx of water has brought serious threats to the safety of the hydraulic structure, which is a matter of urgent concern for disaster management officials.
Pakistan Army and Rescue Services on High Alert
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Punjab government promptly mobilized relief measures. The Pakistan Army has been deployed to assist at flood-affected areas, while Rescue 1122, Civil Defense, and Punjab Police staff have been posted at sensitive points.
Sirens were blown in vulnerable zones, especially along the Ravi River, as the Civil Defense sounded fresh warnings. The administration has already started shifting at-risk communities, though reports indicate that 45,000 people have been hit so far without any reported casualties.
Rivers at Breaking Point
- Chenab River: At Head Marala and Khanki, record-high floods keep moving downstream, with infrastructure stretched to its limits.
- Ravi River: Labeled as the worst flood situation in 32 years, water levels are alarmingly rising at Jasar and Shahdara. Low-lying areas and Motorway 2 are still susceptible to submersion.
- Sutlej River: Extremely high floods at Ganda Singh Wala and medium levels at
- Sulemanki have further escalated the crisis.
The Flood Forecasting Division Lahore is still keeping track of developments, but the situation is jittery as inflows have no signs of abating.
Voices from the Ground
The tragedy of Punjab Faces Worst Flood Threat has shaken local residents residing along riverbanks badly. Assistant Commissioner Ravi, Syeda Sumbal Javed, went to flood-hit areas and assured people of the support of the government. “We are on ground with rescue teams to ensure timely evacuation and protection of lives,” she asserted.
Locals and volunteers alike are also coming forward to support the rescue efforts through temporary accommodations and the provision of necessary supplies. In the midst of fear and uncertainty, there are glimmers of resilience neighbors assisting families, farmers safeguarding livestock, and young people helping elderly in evacuating to safety.
A Race Against Time
With the Ravi’s water level continuously rising, experts warn that the next 48 hours will be crucial. If inflows persist, Punjab may face large-scale displacement, crop damage, and significant infrastructural loss. Authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel near river belts, and promptly comply with evacuation orders.
The floods have not only unveiled the vulnerability of Punjab’s flood management systems but also reopened discussions regarding transboundary water release policies and the critical necessity of long-term climate resilience planning.
Punjab now finds itself at a turning point torn between nature’s wrath and human preparedness. While relief efforts are underway, the scale of this flood reminds us of the shared responsibility to make early warning systems more robust, invest in flood-resilient infrastructure, and construct stronger cross-border water management partnerships.
For the time being, all eyes are on the Khanki Head Works, where 1 million cusecs flow are pushing Pakistan’s water defense structures to the limit. The willpower of Punjab’s people and efficacy of its institutions will decide how this developing disaster will be remembered by history.
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