More than 300 villages submerged as thousands displaced
Lahore
The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for the 11th spell of monsoon rains, expected from September 16 to 19, warning of fresh flooding in rivers and streams across Punjab.
“There is a risk of flooding in rivers and streams due to monsoon rains,” said DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers, and immediately contact the 1129 helpline in emergencies.
All commissioners, deputy commissioners, and relevant departments, including health, irrigation, communication, and livestock, have been placed on high alert.
Floods across Punjab
The breach at the Nooraja Bhutta embankment has displaced thousands, submerging dozens of villages. The Chenab River’s water level is receding near Jalalpur Pirwala, though combined waters from the Sutlej and Chenab continue to damage infrastructure.
At Head Muhammadwala, the Chenab carries a flow of 175,000 cusecs, with levels rapidly declining at Sher Shah Bridge.
Floodwaters released from the Head Panjnad have inundated 80 per cent of Alipur’s land, displacing vast populations. Residents are pleading with authorities for evacuation support. In Alipur tehsil, the land route to Seetpur has been cut off, leaving populations stranded.
At Sher Shah Bridge, the Chenab’s water level has dropped to 392.70, while at Head Panjnad it has reduced by more than 200,000 cusecs, standing at 411,116 cusecs.
Despite receding waters, devastation persists, over 150 villages and 150,000 acres of standing crops have been destroyed, displacing hundreds of thousands.
Rescue operations are ongoing; of the six people swept away, three bodies remain missing.
At least six people have died in Uch Sharif, more than 200 villages remain submerged. Rescue teams are working to evacuate those trapped. Residents have complained that private boat operators are charging exorbitant fees to transport belongings and livestock, calling on authorities to intervene and provide relief.
