NDMA issues flood alert amid rising water levels in Sutlej River

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Tuesday issued an alert regarding a potential flood situation in the Sutlej River, warning of a possible low-level flood at Ganda Singhwala in the coming days due to increased water flow and anticipated rainfall in upstream areas.

According to an NDMA spokesperson, the water discharge in the Sutlej River at Ganda Singhwala surged from 28,657 to 33,653 cusecs within the span of an hour, signalling a notable rise in river flow. The increase is being closely monitored as it poses a risk of inundation in the adjoining low-lying areas.

The spokesperson added that heavy rainfall is expected in the upper catchment areas of the Sutlej and Beas rivers from August 5 to August 7, which may further escalate water levels.

“A further increase in water flow in Sutlej and Beas rivers is expected during this period,” the spokesperson warned.

Providing details about water reservoirs across the border, the NDMA said Bhakra Dam in India is currently 55 percent full, while Pong Dam is at 56 percent of its capacity. The spokesperson cautioned that any additional release of water from these Indian dams could potentially amplify the river’s flow downstream, intensifying flood risks in parts of Punjab.