South Punjab Floods Emergency Alert 2025: Sutlej Releases Rise & Chenab Flow Stagnates
South Punjab Floods Emergency Alert 2025: Sutlej Releases Rise & Chenab Flow Stagnates. South Punjab is once again under the spotlight after alarming updates on river flows. The Sutlej River releases have increased significantly, while the Chenab River remains stagnant at several points. This combination has triggered a flood emergency alert in South Punjab 2025, raising concerns for Multan Division, Jalalpur Pirwala, and other low-lying areas.
Authorities, including the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab and the Ministry of Water Resources, are working round the clock to ensure safety. In this article, we’ll explain the river status, emergency response, flood-affected areas, and the safety advice for residents.
River Status: Sutlej and Chenab Under Pressure
The rising Sutlej and stagnant Chenab are at the heart of the emergency.
Sutlej River Flood Situation
The Indian High Commission informed Pakistan about very high-level floods entering from upstream. Water levels have increased at several points:
- Ganda Singh Wala: 230,000 cusecs (extremely high flood level)
- Sulemanki Headworks: 137,000 cusecs
- Marala Headworks: 62,000 cusecs
Such heavy flows put immense pressure on riverbanks and protective embankments, posing risks for surrounding villages and farmlands.
Chenab River: A Silent Threat
Unlike Sutlej, the Chenab River is not rising rapidly but remains stagnant. Stagnant flows may seem harmless, but they can create severe flooding when coupled with rain or additional upstream releases.
- Khanki Headworks: 98,000 cusecs
- Qadirabad Headworks: 98,000 cusecs
- Head Trimon (Trimmu): 250,000 cusecs
If further rains occur, stagnant water may breach protective barriers, putting Multan Division at risk.
Situation in Multan Division
Sher Shah Dam Under Watch
At Sher Shah Dam, the Chenab’s water levels are closely monitored. Authorities delayed breaching the dam as levels were expected to recede within 24 hours. However, a technical committee is prepared to intervene if the situation worsens.
Jalalpur Pirwala Tehsil
The Jalalpur Pirwala Tehsil flood situation is critical. Temporary dams are struggling against the force of rising waters. Rescue operations are underway:
- Several villages remain submerged.
- Evacuation teams are moving residents to safe zones.
- Relief camps have been established with food, shelter, and medical services.
This tehsil highlights the human impact of South Punjab floods 2025, where thousands are displaced.
Flood Waves at Head Muhammad Wala
A second flood wave passed through Head Muhammad Wala, an important monitoring point. Encouragingly, gauges at Graywala Chowk show a decline in water levels, providing temporary relief downstream.
However, experts warn that this relief may be short-lived if Sutlej continues to release water.
Weather and PDMA Punjab Updates
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab issued positive news. According to DG Irfan Ali Kathia:
- The 10th spell of monsoon rains has ended.
- No heavy rains are forecast for the next week.
- Emergency teams remain on standby.
Chief Minister Punjab has directed departments to remain on high alert until all flood risks are cleared.
Key River Flow Statistics (Cusecs)
Here’s the latest river flow data in cusecs for South Punjab and surrounding areas:
| Location | River | Flow (cusecs) |
|---|---|---|
| Ganda Singh Wala | Sutlej | 230,000 |
| Sulemanki Headworks | Sutlej | 137,000 |
| Marala Headworks | Sutlej | 62,000 |
| Khanki Headworks | Chenab | 98,000 |
| Qadirabad Headworks | Chenab | 98,000 |
| Head Trimon (Trimmu) | Chenab | 250,000 |
| Head Panjnad | Chenab | 475,000 |
| Jasar | Ravi | 26,000 |
| Shahdara | Ravi | 31,000 |
| Balloki Headworks | Ravi | 80,000 |
| Head Sadhanai | Ravi | 121,000 |
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Authorities are focusing on rescue, relief, and rehabilitation:
- Evacuations in Jalalpur Pirwala and Multan villages.
- Temporary shelters with food & healthcare for flood victims.
- Volunteers and NGOs assisting with ration packs and medical aid.
- Mobile medical camps established by health departments.
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and other welfare bodies are coordinating relief for the displaced.
Safety Advice for Residents
Authorities urge residents of South Punjab to take preventive measures:
- Stay updated with PDMA and local authority alerts.
- Shift to relief camps if evacuation orders are issued.
- Keep valuables & documents in waterproof bags.
- Assist vulnerable people (children, elderly, disabled) during movement.
- Report emergencies immediately to Rescue 1122.
What to Monitor Next
Residents and authorities are keeping a close eye on:
- Sher Shah Dam’s stability
- Sutlej River flows at Ganda Singh Wala
- Chenab River stagnation points
- Monsoon forecasts for September 2025
Experts believe that any further upstream release from India may worsen the crisis.
FAQs About South Punjab Flood Emergency 2025
Q1. Why was the flood emergency declared in South Punjab 2025?
Because of rising Sutlej River releases and stagnant Chenab River flows, increasing flood risks in Multan Division and nearby tehsils.
Q2. Which areas of South Punjab are most affected?
Jalalpur Pirwala, Multan Division, and villages near Chenab River are the most affected zones.
Q3. What is the role of PDMA Punjab in flood management?
PDMA coordinates rescue operations, relief camps, and weather monitoring, ensuring residents’ safety.
Q4. Has the Sutlej River flood reached extreme levels?
Yes, at Ganda Singh Wala, flows have reached 230,000 cusecs, classified as an extremely high flood.
Q5. What should residents do during a flood emergency?
They should stay informed, evacuate when instructed, secure documents, and move to official shelters.
Conclusion
The South Punjab floods 2025 highlight the growing risks from river releases and monsoon changes. With the Sutlej River under extreme pressure and the Chenab flow stagnating, the situation demands vigilance and preparedness.
