LAHORE: India has released water from the Pong Dam on the River Beas into the Sutlej River, prompting the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to issue a flood alert for several rivers ahead of a fresh monsoon spell starting August 13.
According to PDMA, the alert covers the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, along with connected drains and streams. The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) has warned of a possible low flood at Ganda Singh Wala headworks within the next 72 hours, where the Sutlej’s flow has already reached 29,000 cusecs.
Officials warn that the upcoming monsoon rains could further raise water levels in major rivers across Punjab. The PDMA has instructed divisional and district administrations to remain on high alert and has urged the public to strictly follow safety guidelines.
DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said preventive measures are necessary to avoid losses, citing a recent incident in which India suddenly released water into the Chenab River. That release pushed water levels to 176,000 cusecs at Head Marala, creating medium flood conditions and threatening several villages near Jalalpur Bhattian.
The FFD cautioned that water levels in the Chenab may rise further, increasing flood risks in vulnerable areas.
