Ravi River Flood Alert: Next 48 hours critical for Lahore

LAHORE: Punjab’s capital Lahore and surrounding areas have been put on high alert as floodwaters from the Ravi, Chenab and Sutlej rivers threaten to inundate parts of the city.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warned residents to be vigilant as heavy monsoon rains, along with water release from India’s Thane and Madhopur dams, have pushed the river level to dangerous levels.

Ravi Flood Update

Authorities have reported that rivers across Punjab are flowing rapidly, with the Ravi carrying up to 2.5 lakh cusecs near Kot Naina and Jasr, while the Chenab head has reached 7.79 lakh cusecs at Marala. In Shakargarh, the Nila Bensi and Nila Harn rivers were swept away, inundating several villages, while cracks in protective embankments near Okara and Burewala submerged crops and settlements.

The alert comes as record rainfall in Sialkot and nearby districts has already caused widespread flooding, collapsed roofs and stranded thousands of people. In Lahore, recent heavy rains have damaged structures and disrupted daily life, prompting authorities to advise residents to limit travel and prepare for emergency evacuations if necessary.

The district administration has mobilized the army, Rangers, police and rescue teams to help with evacuation and relief operations. So far, about 150,000 people have been shifted to safer areas across Punjab, and are being provided with food, medicine and shelter in relief camps.

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has directed federal ministers and disaster management agencies to remain on high alert and ensure timely rescue and relief operations. Residents of low-lying areas in Lahore and nearby districts have been urged to immediately move to safer places.

Authorities have warned that the next 48 hours are critical, with more heavy rains likely in Lahore and surrounding areas, which could further exacerbate the already severe flooding.