Heavy Rains Cause Rivers to Swell Across Punjab, Flood Risks Rise
SIALKOT – The weather department reported 198mm of rainfall at Sialkot Airport, adding to already high water levels in the region’s rivers.
The Chenab River is flowing at extreme flood levels at Marala Headworks, the flood control room confirmed. Officials recorded an inflow of 671,148 cusecs and an outflow of 664,618 cusecs. The barrage’s maximum capacity stands at 1,100,000 cusecs, a Sialkot district administration spokesperson said.
Other cities also experienced heavy rainfall yesterday: Gujrat received 115mm, Narowal 102mm, Mangla 48mm, Jhelum 47mm, Gujranwala 34mm, and Lahore 27mm.
In response to rising water levels, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) announced it will open the spillways of Tarbela Dam at 12:30 pm today, expecting a release of 250,000 cusecs. The NDMA warned that heavy rainfall upstream in India could further increase water flow into Pakistan’s rivers and streams.
A heavy rain alert has been issued for Punjab, covering cities including Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, Kasur, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, Chunian, and Pakpattan. Authorities cautioned that ongoing rains could trigger urban flooding and overflow in rivers and canals.
In Lahore, the Ravi River has seen an inflow of 23,000 cusecs, raising fears of significant flooding over the next 48 hours.
Meanwhile, the Sutlej River is also on the rise after water releases by India, submerging multiple villages in Tehsil Burewala. Provincial irrigation officials reported an inflow of 48,564 cusecs and an outflow of 46,564 cusecs at Islam Headworks, with thousands of acres of crops destroyed due to the flooding.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.