Floods Worsen in Punjab as India Releases Water; Thousands Displaced

Lahore:Punjab is facing an **unprecedented flood crisis** after water was released from India, forcing **thousands of residents to evacuate** their homes.

At **Ganda Singh Wala**, the Sutlej River remains at an **extremely high flood level**, prompting evacuation announcements for villages near the **Talwar Post**. According to the **Flood Forecasting Division Lahore**, water flow at Ganda Singh Wala has reduced from **390,000 cusecs to 303,828 cusecs**, but the situation remains dangerous at **Head Sulemanki** and **Head Islam**.

Meanwhile, water levels in the **Ravi River at Head Balloki** have surged to **192,545 cusecs**, with rising flows also observed at **Head Sidhnai**, while Shahdara (Lahore) and Jassar reported a slight decrease. The **Chenab River** at **Head Panjnad** is also experiencing an increase in inflows.

**PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia** confirmed that due to a breach of a dam in India, water surged toward Kasur. He said the Sutlej River at Kasur has recorded its **highest flood since 1955**, posing a serious threat to the city.

While assuring that **Lahore is safe**, he warned that the next **24 to 48 hours will be critical** for **Okara, Sahiwal, and Toba Tek Singh** due to rising water levels in the Ravi.

So far, **28 deaths** have been confirmed across Punjab, but timely **rescue operations by PDMA, army, and relief agencies** have helped prevent further casualties.