Floods Swamp Punjab, Sindh as Barrages Face Threat

Large parts of Punjab and Sindh remain submerged as high floodwaters from the Indus River continue to rise. Villages in Muzaffargarh, Alipur, and Kachha areas face heavy flooding. Authorities are actively carrying out rescue and relief operations. Thousands of residents are being moved to safer locations to avoid danger. The situation grows urgent as floodwaters threaten key barrages in Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri.

The Irrigation Department reported fluctuating water flows at major barrages, raising alarm. Guddu Barrage saw an inflow of 635,000 cusecs and an outflow of 606,000 cusecs. Sukkur Barrage recorded 538,000 cusecs inflow and 485,736 cusecs outflow. Kotri Barrage had 278,000 cusecs inflow and 267,000 cusecs outflow. Floodwaters are moving from Guddu toward Sukkur, increasing water levels and concerns for the next 24 hours.

Flooding has submerged villages and destroyed crops, damaging local livelihoods. In Manjhand and Aliabad, vast farmland is underwater, destroying ready crops. A young man drowned near Manjhand, highlighting the risks faced by residents. In Ghotki and Kashmore, flood currents damaged protective embankments, forcing urgent evacuations. The flood impact continues to worsen as communities struggle to cope.

Government officials are responding with relief efforts and public reassurance. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed that relief camps operate actively and authorities assist affected families. In Bahawalnagar, displaced families gathered at a tent city where children watched the Asia Cup match on a large screen. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah warned that water inflows could reach up to 700,000 cusecs. He requested federal aid through the Benazir Income Support Programme to support flood victims.

Despite the devastation, monsoon rains have helped refill Pakistan’s water reservoirs. WAPDA reported that Tarbela and Chashma dams are now full, while Mangla has limited space left. Total usable water storage exceeds 12.9 million acre feet, providing some relief. Tarbela holds 5.7 million acre feet, Mangla water levels reached 1,237 feet, and Chashma is at 311,000 acre feet. These water reserves will support the country amid ongoing floods.