Punjab is currently battling the most severe flood in its history, according to officials.The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned that heavy inflows are moving through major rivers. The next 24 hours could see severe flooding in Multan, Khanewal, and surrounding districts.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stated that 260,000 cusecs of water are passing through Kasur. He added that Head Sulemanki will see an inflow of 175,000 cusecs, while 135,000 cusecs will cross Head Islam. At Baloki, the Ravi River is swelling, raising alarms for nearby villages. Kathia warned that Khanewal’s rural areas are likely to face flooding soon.
Danger Ahead for Southern Punjab
Officials noted that on September 2, the Ravi’s waters will merge with the Chenab, intensifying the situation. A seven-lakh cusec flood wave is expected to pass Head Trimmu by Monday afternoon. Another eight-lakh cusec wave is predicted at Head Muhammadwala. Authorities also confirmed that the Sher Shah Bridge will experience high water pressure.
The PDMA has highlighted that Sutlej’s floodwaters will cross four districts. Multan is expected to face serious risk within the next day. Meanwhile, reports indicate that 144 villages in Chiniot are already submerged. In Lahore, heavy rains caused roof collapses, killing four people and injuring four others.
Government Response and Precautions
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced that several districts are now under pressure. These include Jhang, Multan, Muzaffargarh, Okara, Sahiwal, Toba Tek Singh, Khanewal, Kasur, Pakpattan, Vehari, Bahawalnagar, and Bahawalpur. In the next few days, Rajanpur and Rahim Yar Khan may also come under threat.
Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to prepare for evacuation. Relief teams are on high alert, and emergency shelters are being set up in key locations. Officials have also warned that the ongoing monsoon spell will continue until September 2, increasing the risk of further flooding.
Disruptions in Transport
Adding to the crisis, flight operations at Sialkot International Airport remain completely suspended for the fourth straight day. The airport usually handles 10 to 11 international flights daily, but all arrivals and departures have been halted.
As Punjab’s flood advances, both rural and urban areas brace for heavy damage. With rivers overflowing and rains continuing, the province faces a humanitarian emergency in the days ahead.
