Army Called In as Punjab Faces Severe Flood Threat

Lahore: Punjab is grappling with a severe flood crisis as heavy monsoon rains, combined with India’s release of dam water, have pushed major rivers to dangerous levels. Authorities have called in the army to assist with rescue and relief operations in six districts: Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Narowal and Okara. Officials say the next 48 hours will be critical as water levels continue to rise.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has described the situation as “extreme.” At Jassar, the Ravi River is carrying 170,000 cusecs and may surge to 250,000 cusecs. The Chenab River at Marala could reach 690,000 cusecs, while the Sutlej River near Kasur is already flowing at 245,000 cusecs. Officials fear embankments may not withstand the rising pressure.

Rescue teams are evacuating families from low-lying areas using boats. Thousands have been shifted from vulnerable villages, but many remain stranded. In Narowal and Shakargarh, overflowing streams have submerged roads and bridges. In Zafarwal, part of the Hanjli Bridge collapsed under the force of Nullah Dek, cutting off access to several villages.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired an emergency meeting where he was informed that over 174,000 people have been evacuated from affected districts. He directed authorities to speed up rescue operations and ensure that relief camps provide food, medicines and shelter. The Punjab Home Department has requested the interior ministry to deploy additional troops to strengthen local administrations.

Officials confirmed that India has opened the gates of Thein Dam on the Ravi and intends to release more water from Madhopur Dam. Satellite images show Thein Dam is almost full, raising fears that further releases could trigger very high flooding in the coming hours.

The situation in Shahdara and along Motorway-2 has also grown tense as the Ravi continues to swell. Families have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain in contact with local rescue teams. Authorities warn that delays in evacuation could endanger lives.

Rescue 1122, police and civil defence personnel are already stretched thin, while army units are set to provide critical support. Relief operations are underway across dozens of villages, where camps have been established with arrangements for food, medical assistance and sanitation.

Read More: Punjab Floods Wreak Havoc After India Releases 2 Lakh Cusecs into Ravi