River Sutlej floods to reach critical levels

KASUR: The moderate flood in the Sutlej River has escalated to high levels, with an extremely severe flood level expected to persist for the next 24 hours.

At Head Ganda Singhwala in Kasur, the water level has surged past 23 feet due to increased flood currents released from India into the Sutlej.

According to the reports, this surge has led to a continuous rise in the water level during the third phase of the Sutlej River flood. The floodwaters have wreaked havoc on crops like paddy, turmeric, maize, and taro (arvi).

India is set to release additional water into the Sutlej today, compounding the crisis. The deluge has already submerged multiple villages, and the situation is critical.

In Kasur’s Ganda Singhwala, the flow of water has reached 278,297 cusecs. The release of floodwaters from the Ferozepur Barrage has intensified the challenges in Kasur, while neighboring districts of Okara, Pakpattan, and Vihari are on high alert.

A substantial influx of water is anticipated to reach the Sulemanki Barrage in Okara later in the day. In preparation, rescue agencies have dispatched additional boats and safety equipment. Rural areas and settlements along the riverbanks are at substantial risk.

As of now, the inflow of water at Head Sulemanki is at 80,143 cusecs, with an outflow of 66,427 cusecs. At Head Islam, the inflow stands at 32,072 cusecs, while the outflow is 30,142 cusecs.

The Syphon in Mailsi is grappling with a water level of 41,403 cusecs, and the threat of flooding in Mailsi is anticipated to persist for the next five days.

Meanwhile, due to the flood currents originating from India, the Sutlej River has overflowed, endangering numerous villages in Pakpattan. Authorities have requested heavy machinery to protect the road network and contain the situation.