India Releases More Water into Sutlej, Severe Flood Threat in Multan; Mass Evacuations Underway

Multan: India has once again released water into the Sutlej River, prompting a major flood alert as the situation in Multan grows increasingly dangerous. Large-scale evacuations are ongoing from villages near Shershah Barrage due to the risk of breaching.

According to reports, the water level in the Chenab River is also rising. Around 543,000 cusecs of water released from Head Trimmu has entered the Multan region, while levels at Head Muhammadwala continue to surge.

Through the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, New Delhi informed Pakistan’s Ministry of Water Resources about the release, after which an immediate flood alert was issued. The high commissioner sent the warning at 8 a.m., cautioning that severe flooding was expected at Harike and Ferozepur points on the Sutlej.

Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) stated that the fresh release would further increase the Sutlej’s water flow, where high flood levels are already being recorded downstream of Harike and Ferozepur. Citizens have been urged to take protective measures as authorities brace for impact.

Officials confirmed that the Irrigation Department’s gauge crossed 413.40, and plans are underway to deliberately breach the Shershah Barrage to reduce water pressure. Such a breach could submerge over 20 villages.

Lawmakers Abdul Qadir Gillani and Ali Qasim Gillani appealed to residents to evacuate immediately. Overnight, villagers near Shershah began moving to safer areas. Former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani also urged communities to relocate, stating that water would be diverted toward Shershah, Gagra Kachor, Mouza Hamar, and nearby localities to reduce flood pressure and limit further damage.

Authorities warn that in the next 48 hours, a massive flood wave will reach Multan, putting the city at extreme risk.