Evacuation begins as Punjab rivers face high flood risk in 48 hours

Authorities on Tuesday warned of high to very high flood risk in Punjab’s major rivers, with Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej expected to swell dangerously in the next 48 hours.

Rescue teams, Army, and Rangers have been called in as evacuation efforts intensify.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the water flow at Ganda Singhwala in the Sutlej River has surged to 195,000 cusecs, creating a very high flood situation.

At Head Sulemanki, inflow has reached 144,000 cusecs with an outflow of 98,000 cusecs, while the Ravi River at Jasar is flowing at 90,000 cusecs.

District administrations in Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Vehari and Narowal have sought military support to evacuate vulnerable communities. Leave for government staff has been cancelled, with officials directed to stay in affected areas.

Rescue 1122 spokesperson Farooq Ahmed said more than 24,000 people have already been moved to safer locations from flood-prone areas along the Indus, Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej. With heavy monsoon rains forecast, authorities fear worsening conditions.

Urban flooding is also likely in Rawalpindi, Lahore and Gujranwala divisions. Officials have advised residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with emergency teams.