NDMA Warns of Super Flood Threat in Sindh, Govt Steps Up Preparations

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning of persistent water pressure in the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers. A major flow is expected to reach Guddu and Sukkur barrages between September 4 and 5, with discharge levels forecasted between 700,000 and 1.1 million cusecs.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that preparations are in progress for a possible super flood, noting that “whether the flow reaches 900,000 or 1 million cusecs, the Kacha areas will submerge.” He confirmed that the provincial government has marked six vulnerable points and is working with the Pakistan Army to safeguard the Guddu and Sukkur barrages.

Sindh Flood Preparedness Measures

• Evacuation of Kacha areas underway.
• 948 relief camps established in affected districts.
• 192 boats and Pakistan Navy rescue teams deployed.
• Qadirpur and Shank embankments under strict monitoring.
• Relief efforts supported by NDMA, PDMA, Pakistan Army, and Navy.

According to NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, more than 850 people have lost their lives and over 1,150 have been injured in floods triggered by recent rains and flash floods. So far, 600,000 people have been shifted to safer areas, with thousands of livestock rescued.

The NDMA further warned of heavy rains in eastern Punjab, Azad Kashmir, and nearby regions during the first 10 days of September, which could escalate flood pressure in Sindh.

Government briefings confirmed that a potential super flood in the Indus River could affect 15 districts, 167 union councils, and 1,651 villages, impacting nearly 1.63 million people (273,148 families).

A 24/7 Sindh flood emergency cell has been set up at the Sindh Secretariat, where senior ministers including Sharjeel Inam Memon and Jam Khan Shoro, along with CM Murad Ali Shah, are personally reviewing the situation at both barrages.