PDMA warns of major floods as India releases more water

LAHORE: Director General Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Irfan Ali Kathia has warned of a serious flood threat as heavy flood waves in Rivers Ravi and Chenab are likely to merge today.

India has released more water into the Sutlej River, with the Indian High Commission informing Pakistan about the development. Following the intimation, the Ministry of Water Resources issued a formal alert.

According to DG PDMA, the massive flood wave has already reached Head Sidhnai and is now moving towards Head Muhammadwala.

“If water levels rise further, the situation could become critical,” Kathia cautioned.

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He said the flood wave in River Chenab has reached Head Trimmu in Jhang. “If the risk of damage increases, tough decisions will be unavoidable,” he added.

Kasur district, he noted, has been facing high flood levels in River Sutlej for the past one and a half months. Continuous rains across Punjab have added to the pressure.

Kathia confirmed that India’s dams have reached full capacity, forcing authorities to release water into the Sutlej River. High flood levels are now expected at Harike and Ferozepur points.

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The PDMA chief warned that Sindh might face flood waves between September 6 and 7. More rains are forecast till September 5.

He said rescue efforts were in full swing, with 900,000 people already shifted to safer locations as part of precautionary measures.