Authorities in Pakistan are bracing for severe flooding after India released additional water into the Sutlej River, intensifying fears of large-scale devastation along the riverbanks.
Critical Flood Warnings at Harike and Ferozepur
The Ministry of Water Resources confirmed that India has notified the potential for extremely high flood levels at Harike and Ferozepur. Emergency alerts have been sent to all provincial departments, urging rapid preparedness to minimize loss of life and property. Pakistani officials argue that such water releases, without coordination, violate the spirit of the Indus Waters Treaty, which governs river management between the two countries.
Embankment Breach Submerges Villages
On the ground, the situation is already dire. In Jalalpur Pirwala, a breach in the protective embankment has swept through several villages, forcing urgent evacuations. The Punjab Chief Minister personally oversaw late-night operations as boats and helicopters ferried stranded families to safer ground. Authorities say the timely opening of Vehari Bridge prevented floodwaters from overwhelming the nearby city.
Confluence of Rivers Worsens Crisis
The flood threat is not confined to the Sutlej alone. Its confluence with the Ravi and Chenab rivers has produced dangerously high water volumes at Head Panjnad. In Alipur tehsil of Muzaffargarh, entire settlements are under water. Meanwhile, standing crops across Khairpur Tamewali, Rahim Yar Khan, and Liaquatpur districts have been destroyed, dealing a major blow to local farmers.
Rajanpur on High Alert
Disaster officials warn that within hours, a powerful flood surge will reach Rajanpur near Kot Mithan. Evacuation orders have been issued in vulnerable low-lying areas, as authorities scramble to contain damage from what could become one of the most destructive flood waves of the season.
