Emergency Declared in Punjab Amid Heavy Monsoon Rains and Urban Flooding Fears

LAHORE – An emergency has been declared across various regions of Punjab as a powerful monsoon spell threatens to unleash widespread urban flooding and river overflows, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).

The fourth phase of the monsoon—described as more intense than previous waves—is forecast to continue until July 25, prompting flood alerts and heightened readiness across the province.

High-Risk Areas
Major cities on alert include Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and others. Urban flooding is expected in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, where rain emergencies have already been declared.

In Lahore, heavy thunderstorms and downpours are expected over the next four days, while Karachi is also likely to receive significant rainfall today. Rainfall is also predicted across parts of Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan.

River & Crop Impact
River Sutlej has swollen near Arifwala, where floodwaters have entered agricultural lands, damaging sesame and maize crops.

In Arifwala’s Dhola Patan area, rapid river flow is triggering soil erosion, posing a threat to nearby communities.

Over 12 villages in Kashmore’s katcha area have been submerged, destroying rice, sugarcane, and moong bean crops.

Water levels are rising in Punjab’s major rivers:

Mangla Dam is 49% full

Tarbela Dam is at 79% capacity

Rawal Dam’s spillways to be reopened to control overflow

A flood wave from Chashma Barrage has reached Taunsa, while flash floods hit the Poonch River in Kotli, Azad Kashmir.

PDMA & Government Response
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned that continuous rainfall in upper catchments could sharply increase flows in Ravi, Jhelum, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers. The Indus River at Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma is already witnessing a low-level flood.

Authorities have issued:

Flood alerts across Punjab

Directives to Punjab Police for increased river patrolling

Warnings to private housing societies to ensure proper drainage or face penalties

So far, 135 people have died and 479 injured in rain-related incidents this monsoon season across Punjab.