India could release water in 72 hours, PDMA warns

Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province issued a flood alert for River Sutlej and its adjoining tributaries on Monday over the possibility that India would release water from its dams within the next 72 hours. 

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a flood alert for Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, along with their connected drains and streams, ahead of a fresh monsoon spell starting August 13. The PDMA has placed the Sutlej River on low flood alert. The Flood Forecasting Division has warned of possible low flood at Ganda Singh Wala headworks within the next 72 hours. Currently, the Sutlej’s water flow at Ganda Singh Wala has reached 29,000 cusecs and is rising. Officials said the upcoming rains could further increase water levels in Punjab’s major rivers.

Divisional and district administrations, along with concerned departments, have been directed to remain on high alert. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has urged the public to follow all safety guidelines. Meanwhile, India’s sudden release of water into the Chenab River has caused a rapid rise in water levels. At Qadir Abad, the flow has surged to 166,796 cusecs, raising fears of flooding in several villages near Jalalpur Bhattian.

The Flood Forecasting Division reported that the sudden release pushed the Chenab to medium flood level at Marala headworks, where the water flow is now 176000 cusecs. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and warn that further increases in water levels are likely. Residents in low-lying and riverbank areas have been advised to stay alert and prepare for possible evacuation if conditions worsen. Emergency teams are on standby to respond quickly to any situation.