ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high alert for the Sutlej River amid dangerously rising water levels caused by heavy discharges from India’s Pong and Bhakra dams.
According to the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), water flow at Ganda Singh Wala has reached an exceptionally high flood level, recording 335,591 cusecs. The surge is linked to Pong Dam being filled to 98% capacity and Bhakra Dam at nearly 96%.
Authorities warned that downstream areas are at heightened risk. At Sulemanki, flows are expected to reach 132,000 cusecs, while Islam Headworks is likely to see levels rise close to 95,700 cusecs, putting it in the medium-to-high flood category.
The NDMA cautioned that the river will likely remain in a prolonged high flood state in the coming days, threatening several districts, including Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Burewala, Arifwala, and Bahawalnagar. Rising waters could inundate agricultural land, rural settlements, and vulnerable infrastructure, raising fears of mass displacement and significant damage.
Rescue and relief operations are being coordinated with provincial and district administrations. Citizens have been urged to remain alert, follow official safety instructions, and contact Rescue 1122 or emergency services in case of danger.
