Lahore / Punjab, Pakistan – The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a high alert, warning that Multan may face severe flooding within the next 24 hours as the province experiences what officials describe as the largest flood in its history.
According to DG PDMA Punjab, Irfan Kathia, floodwaters in the rivers Sutlej, Chenab, and Ravi have reached critical levels, with millions already affected. He confirmed that:
Over 2 million people and 2,200 villages have been impacted by the floods.
At least 33 people have lost their lives across Punjab.
At Head Trimmu, water flow has reached 361,000 cusecs and is expected to rise to 700,000 cusecs within 24 hours.
Head Muhammadwala may face a peak of 800,000 cusecs, while floodwaters will also pass under Sher Shah Bridge.
Sutlej River is flowing at exceptionally high levels at Ganda Singh Wala, Sulaimanki, and Head Balloki.
Senior Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb stated in Islamabad that for the first time in history, a large-scale, technology-driven rescue operation has been conducted. She confirmed that:
7,50,000 people have been safely evacuated to relief camps.
Over 5,00,000 livestock have been shifted to safe locations.
400 veterinary camps have been established.
Police, Civil Defence, and schools are being utilized for emergency shelter and relief services.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a high-level review meeting, directing authorities to use drones and modern technology to assess immediate needs in flood-affected areas. She emphasized that no victim should feel abandoned, instructing that clean drinking water, food, and medical supplies must reach every affected person. Safe school buildings near flood-hit areas have also been designated as relief shelters.
In addition to riverine flooding, heavy rains in Lahore caused the collapse of multiple rooftops, leading to five deaths and several injuries. Rescue 1122 confirmed casualties in Old Anarkali, Bedian Road, and Burki Main Bazaar.
The Flood Forecasting Division reported that Tarbela Dam is at 100% capacity while Mangla Dam has reached 82% capacity, raising further concerns about downstream flooding.
With Punjab’s rivers at peak flood levels, PDMA has urged citizens in low-lying areas to evacuate immediately and cooperate with rescue teams. Authorities warn that the coming 24 hours are critical, especially for Multan and surrounding districts.
