PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has warned that Punjab is facing one of the biggest floods in its history as water levels in major rivers continue to rise, posing serious risks to downstream areas.
According to Irfan Ali Kathia, water from the Chenab at Qadirabad is expected to re-enter already affected areas, and the situation in Jhang will worsen as floodwaters advance. At Head Trimmu, water inflows are rising, while Sutlej has been in a state of high flood for the past two months.
At Ganda Singh, flows of over 319,000 cusecs are being recorded. “The situation at Ravi remains challenging,” Kathia said, noting that the river’s flow has increased at Jassar and water from Indian dams—already filled to capacity—may be released within the next 24 hours.
He said water pressure at Sher Shah is very high, while Satluj and Ravi flows are complicating the situation. “Chenab’s flow is stronger than Ravi’s, which is why Ravi water is not merging into Chenab at Sadhnai. This will continue until Chenab levels drop,” he explained.
Kathia confirmed that authorities were forced to breach the Safuran embankment last night, flooding villages in Kabirwala, Pir Mahal, and Ahmadpur Sial. “Decisions regarding Head Muhammad Wala have been taken, and efforts are being made to protect surrounding villages,” he added.
By September 5, floodwaters from three rivers are expected to converge at Panjnad, and between the night of September 6 and 7, a flow of around 900,000 cusecs will enter Sindh.
“This is the biggest flood in Punjab’s history,” Kathia warned, urging continuous vigilance and coordinated response efforts.
