India has released more water into the Sutlej River, triggering a major flood alert in Pakistan. The Indian High Commission warned Pakistani authorities early Tuesday morning. In response, the Ministry of Water Resources alerted all relevant departments. The water release has increased the risk of high flooding at Herike and Ferozepur points. Authorities now fear a severe flood situation across Punjab and Sindh.
Meanwhile, the situation in Punjab has worsened due to ongoing heavy rains and river flooding. A second flood wave in the Chenab River is approaching Multan’s Head Muhammad Wala. To protect the city, officials have prepared to breach the Shershah embankment. Other embankments like Akbar Bund and Graywala Bund are under strict watch. Many villages and farmlands in nearby areas are already submerged.
Rainfall has broken records in parts of Punjab, especially Faisalabad. The city saw its heaviest rainfall in 30 years. Low-lying neighborhoods flooded quickly, forcing people to flee their homes. In Lahore, heavy rain paralyzed normal life and flooded streets. Widespread power outages followed as nearly 80 electricity feeders tripped across the city.
In Sindh, the Indus River is rising rapidly and threatens to flood Katcha areas. At Guddu Barrage, water levels have reached dangerous limits. Over 443,000 cusecs of water are now flowing through the barrage. Evacuations are underway in Kashmore, Kot Mithan, and nearby towns. Roads to many flood-prone areas are already cut off due to water.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority fears that 224,000 people could be affected in Sindh. About 200 villages are at risk of submerging. The flood wave from Punjab will soon reach Guddu, Sukkur, and Sehwan. Local embankments are weakening, and some have already breached. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited Guddu Barrage, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto is also expected to inspect the area.