Rising Chenab, Ravi river levels trigger flooding in Punjab

LAHORE: Rising water levels in the Chenab and Ravi rivers have triggered flooding across parts of Punjab, damaging farmland, threatening homes and prompting authorities to establish relief camps in vulnerable areas.

In Kot Bela near Alipur Chattha, floodwaters from the Chenab River caused extensive riverbank erosion, placing dozens of houses at risk. Thousands of acres of agricultural land were washed away, while standing crops were submerged under several feet of water, resulting in significant losses for farmers.

Meanwhile, the Irrigation Department said water levels in the Ravi River continued to rise at Head Sidhani near Abdul Hakeem. The inflow at Head Sidhani was recorded at 53,530 cusecs, while the outflow stood at 38,230 cusecs.

In response to the situation, the administration established flood relief camps in Mill Fatehiana, Kot Pathana, Adda Kalyara, Mauza Tara, Haveli Mai Safuran, Kot Karam Shah and Dedhi to assist affected residents.

Floodwaters also inundated crops in Mill Fatehiana, Khan Da Chak, Jhlar Sagla, Shahbal Shah, Basti Peepal Wala and Mauza Darsana, adding to the agricultural damage caused by the rising rivers.

The Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Irrigation has advised residents living in river belt areas to move to safer locations as a precaution against further flooding.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as rising river levels pose an ongoing threat to nearby communities and agricultural land.