India releases more water into Sutlej River
India has released more water into the Sutlej River, raising flood alarms in several areas of Punjab, Pakistan. Authorities have issued urgent warnings as the water level continues to rise, with both the Ravi and Sutlej rivers under close watch. The situation has heightened concerns for residents living near riverbanks, farmlands, and low-lying regions.
According to official reports, India released additional water from the Madhopur Dam on Monday night, directly impacting water flow in the Sutlej River. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) confirmed that heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir is contributing to an even greater influx of water.
Already, floodwaters released by India into the Ravi River have entered Pakistani territory, causing a sudden surge at Jassar point. Rescue officials reported that 56 people trapped in farmlands near Narowal were safely evacuated. A moderate-level flood is currently passing through Jassar, with waters expected to reach Shahdara later today.
Meanwhile, at Ganda Singh Wala, the Sutlej River has reached extremely high flood levels with a flow of 195,000 cusecs, forcing residents to evacuate. In areas such as Uch Sharif, Arifwala, and Pakpattan, hundreds of acres of farmland and residential properties have already been submerged.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed disaster management authorities to ensure timely evacuation and provide immediate relief to affected families. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) also confirmed that more than 22 villages in Tehsil Phalia are at risk of inundation. Rescue 1122 teams are on high alert and ready to conduct large-scale relief operations.
The Flood Forecasting Division has further warned that water levels in both the Ravi and Sutlej rivers are continuously rising, posing a serious threat to Lahore and surrounding districts. Additionally, reports suggest India may soon release more water into the Chenab River, which could worsen the flooding situation in central Punjab.
The developments have once again raised concerns regarding India’s management of transboundary rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Pakistani officials have stressed that India’s decision to release water without adequate coordination endangers millions of lives and livelihoods. Farmers, already struggling with crop damage due to monsoon rains, now face devastating losses as entire fields are submerged.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities are urging residents of vulnerable areas to remain cautious, follow official advisories, and relocate to safer zones where necessary. Relief camps are being established in affected districts, while health units are preparing to deal with potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases in flood-hit regions.
Stay updated with MegaNews for the latest updates on Pakistan’s dams, water storage, and flood alerts.
