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. Meanwhile, the flood situation in Punjab remains critical with hundreds more villages in Multan, Shujabad, Rahim Yar Khan, Ahmedpur Sharqia, Rajanpur, and Vehari submerged. According to the Federal Flood Commission, there is a very high-level flood in the Chenab River at the Panjnad Barrage, while a similar situation is expected at Guddu Barrage in the next 24 to 48 hours. The flood-related deaths in Punjab have exceeded 100, nearly 5,000 villages and over 4.5 million people have been affected, and standing crops on millions of acres have been destroyed. Multan is facing a flood crisis due to the Chenab River, with dozens of settlements in Head Muhammad Wala and Sher Shah still under water. In Rajanpur’s riverine areas, thousands of people have been forced to evacuate due to flooding. In Bahawalnagar, a low-level flood is ongoing in the Sutlej River at Head Sulemanki where inflow is 78,575 cusecs and outflow is 69,019 cusecs.
Punjab on alert as 11th monsoon spell threatens flood-hit areas
Published on: September 15, 2025 3:23 AM