Punjab Rivers Face Flood Risk Amid Monsoon Rains, Possible Water Release from India

LAHORE – August 12, 2025: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a flood warning for several rivers as heavy rains continue in the upper regions of the country, combined with a possible water release from India in the coming days.

A PDMA spokesperson revealed concerns over a potential surge in the Sutlej River within the next 48 hours, citing a “significant and unusual” rise in water levels at major Indian dams. The Bhakra Dam is currently at 61% capacity, the Pong Dam at 76%, and the Thein Dam at 64% of their storage limits.

Authorities have also issued an alert for a medium-to-high flood risk in the Chenab River. PDMA Director General confirmed that water flows in rivers and reservoirs are being closely monitored round-the-clock, with particular vigilance on the Sutlej due to the threat of increasing inflow.

The warning follows Monday’s flood advisory as Punjab prepares for its seventh spell of monsoon rains starting August 13. Meteorologists forecast that the upcoming rainfall could significantly raise water levels in the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, as well as their tributaries and adjoining streams.

District commissioners, deputy commissioners, and all relevant departments have been directed to maintain high alert status.

Pakistan has already been grappling with the impact of recent monsoon rains, which caused urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides across multiple regions, claiming over 300 lives. Gilgit-Baltistan was particularly affected, with at least 10 fatalities and multiple injuries reported due to landslides and flooding in popular tourist areas last month, according to Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan.