A historic flood surge in the River Sutlej triggered by India’s water release prompted the evacuation of thousands to safer locations on Saturday.
Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab Mohsin Naqvi assured that authorities were vigilantly monitoring the flood situation as 278,000 cusecs of water surged near Ganda Singh Border, Kasur, due to India’s water discharge.
Naqvi took to microblogging site X (formerly Twitter), stating, “This flood is unprecedented in 35 years, but our teams are on the ground, committed to securing and assisting our people.”
Naqvi applauded district administration, Rescue 1122, police, and irrigation teams for their dedicated efforts over the past three days, pledging effective management of the situation.
He announced the imposition of Section 144 in the area for public safety and emphasized reinforcing embankments with necessary resources.
Punjab Irrigation Department reported the River Sutlej’s water level at Ganda Singh exceeded 278,000 cusecs, while inflow at Sulemanki Headworks stood at 80,143 cusecs.
Although a low-level flood occurred at Sulemanki Headworks, the Ganda Singh area faced a perilous surge in water levels.
Evacuations carried out in Lalika, Chavika, Wazirka, Kot Makhdoom, Bonga Ehsan, Kaku Bodla, Pir Sikandar, Kalia Shah, Jodhika, and nearby regions in response to the warning.
Bahawalnagar’s district administration established 19 flood relief camps and 11 rescue points.
Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a warning, indicating India’s anticipated water release until August 20.
The Irrigation Department reported embankment breaches at River Sutlej’s Kangan Chowki, leading to water inundation in nearby villages and significant crop damage.
