Intensifying monsoon rains across the catchment areas have caused a significant surge in water levels throughout Punjab’s river system, prompting flood alerts in several districts. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed on Wednesday that low-level flooding is currently being observed in sections of the Indus and Chenab rivers, with authorities maintaining a state of heightened vigilance.
Rising Water Levels in Major Rivers
The Indus River is experiencing a powerful flow, with water discharge at Tarbela Dam reaching a staggering 336,000 cusecs. Downstream, the flow at Chashma Barrage has been recorded at 302,000 cusecs. The situation is more pronounced on the Chenab River, where low flood conditions have been officially declared at the Marala and Qadirabad headworks.
According to official data, water flows on the Chenab are substantial:
- 195,000 cusecs at Marala
- 262,000 cusecs at Khanki
- 245,000 cusecs at Qadirabad
In contrast, the Sutlej and Jhelum rivers are currently flowing at normal levels. The Ravi River, however, is maintaining a high flow of approximately 73,000 cusecs at Balloki, though other monitoring points including Jassar, Shahdara, and Head Sidhhnai are reporting normal conditions.
Flash Flooding in Hill Torrents and Streams
The heavy downpours have also triggered dangerous conditions in smaller waterways. The PDMA reported that medium-level flooding has been observed at the Basantar stream in Narowal. Simultaneously, low-level flooding is affecting Nallah Bhimber in Gujrat and Nallah Palkhu in Wazirabad, posing a direct threat to adjacent low-lying communities.
Authorities on High Alert
The Director General of the PDMA attributed the sharp increase in river flows directly to persistent rainfall in the upper regions and catchment areas. Emergency response teams and district administrations have been directed to closely monitor the evolving situation, particularly around vulnerable embankments and population centers near the Chenab and Indus rivers. Residents in at-risk areas are being advised to remain cautious and follow official guidance as the monsoon system persists.
