Sutlej River floods penetrate Bahawalpur, massive devastation feared

BAHAWALPUR:  The Sutlej River has unleashed its roaring floodwaters, breaching defenses and inundating Bahawalpur with catastrophic consequences.

The iconic Empress Bridge, which spans the river, now witnesses water levels surging to an astonishing 10 feet – a height not seen in 13 years.

Torrential floods are the root cause of this unprecedented rise, leaving widespread havoc in their wake.

Reports confirm an overwhelming discharge of approximately 130,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water cascading through the Empress Bridge. This awe-inspiring yet alarming sight draws the attention of onlookers.

The unyielding force of these floodwaters has overwhelmed multiple dams along its path, leaving behind a trail of unfathomable destruction. Countless villages find themselves submerged by the deluge, compelling urgent rescue operations to relocate displaced residents.

Agricultural landscapes have been equally vulnerable, as the floodwaters breached a temporary dam near the banks of the Sutlej River. The consequence: extensive spans of fertile fields now lie submerged, imperiling the livelihoods of local farmers.

Up to 100,000 people moved due to Punjab floods

Fears of a major disaster loomed as floodwaters from Islam Headworks surged towards Bahawalpur. Sadly, the district administration’s mitigation efforts were inadequate. Protective dams were left unfortified, and preparations for housing displaced individuals were glaringly absent. Even segments of Bahawalpur city face severe threats as the water’s relentless rise continues unchecked.

Amidst the crisis, authorities are grappling to orchestrate a response. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to safeguard affected residents, navigating the challenges posed by the ongoing floodwaters. The situation remains fluid, and efforts to manage and mitigate the catastrophe persist as the water levels relentlessly escalate. INP