LAHORE: At least 30 people lost their lives across Punjab in flood-related incidents and more than 1.5 million residents were affected, according to a report by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
According to details, Punjab continues to face a worsening flood crisis as major rivers, including the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej, overflow due to persistent monsoon rains. The floodwaters have now entered populated areas, submerging hundreds of villages and displacing thousands across the province.
Many areas remain submerged, with critical infrastructure, crops, and homes suffering significant damage.
After causing destruction in Sialkot, Wazirabad, and Chiniot, the flood surge in the Chenab River has now entered Jhang, submerging 180 villages. Crops spread over hundreds of acres have been destroyed, and connecting roads have disappeared under water.
Rescue teams have evacuated stranded residents using boats. Displaced families, including women and children, spent the night in the open, with no access to food or relief, appealing directly to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for help.
At Head Trimmu, the water flow in the Chenab has risen to 249,000 cusecs, while Head Khanki and Qadirabad are experiencing high flood levels with flows of 229,000 and 203,000 cusecs, respectively.
In Multan, the flood threat looms as authorities anticipate a massive flow of 800,000 cusecs passing through the Chenab. Commissioner Aamir Khattak warned that a breach at Head Muhammad Wala may become necessary if water levels exceed capacity. The headworks can handle up to 1 million cusecs.
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Meanwhile, the Sutlej River remains at extremely high flood levels at Ganda Singh Wala, with a recorded flow of 253,068 cusecs. Head Sulemanki is also experiencing high flood conditions at 154,219 cusecs, with several nearby villages still submerged.
As a precautionary measure, all schools in Pakpattan and Arifwala will remain closed from September 1 until further notice. The decision aims to protect the safety of students and teachers.
