Authorities in Pakistan are bracing for potential flooding after India released around 150,000 cusecs of water into the country, pushing river levels higher in both Punjab and Sindh.
Ravi River Swells Near Lahore and Narowal
The Ravi has seen a sharp rise in water flow, prompting precautionary evacuations in several riverbank communities. In Lahore’s Shahdara area, nearly 26,000 cusecs are flowing downstream, creating what officials describe as a “low flood” situation.
Further upstream in Narowal, the surge is more severe, with over 52,000 cusecs reported. Villages such as Bustan, Mandikhel, Kothe, and Dudhe are already underwater, forcing residents to move to temporary shelters set up by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).
Local reports highlight how quickly the water spread. In one case, a farmer spraying his rice fields was swept up by floodwaters but was saved by his brother using a tractor tube—an incident that underscores how suddenly conditions have deteriorated.
Rising Threat in the Indus
Sindh is also on edge as water inflows continue to climb at key barrages. The Irrigation Department recorded over 360,000 cusecs entering Guddu Barrage and nearly 286,000 at Sukkur Barrage. While currently categorized as “low-level flooding,” officials warn Guddu could face a moderate flood within three days and Sukkur may be at risk within 24 hours.
Emergency Preparations Underway
District administrations across both provinces have been instructed to stay on standby. Relief camps, rescue teams, and medical facilities are in place to respond if conditions worsen. The PDMA has emphasized that the coming days will be critical as river flows stabilize—or rise further depending on upstream discharges.
Flood experts note that such sudden water releases not only endanger rural communities but also put crops at risk during a crucial agricultural season. With the Ravi and Indus carrying more than their usual loads, farmers and residents along the riverbanks are being urged to remain vigilant.
