Lahore, August 31, 2025: Punjab is in the grip of a devastating flood emergency as surging waters in the Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej rivers displace millions and threaten several districts across the province.
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warned the crisis could intensify within 24 hours. At Trimmu Headworks, river discharge has risen to 299,000 cusecs, with officials forecasting a surge of up to 700,000 cusecs by September 1. The Chenab’s swelling waters are also expected to cause severe flooding at Sher Shah Bridge, while a major flood wave is likely to hit Multan tonight.
By September 2, the Ravi is expected to merge with the Chenab, putting Khanewal and Kabirwala at high risk. Downstream, authorities said floodwaters from the three rivers will reach Head Panjnad within 72 hours. With a capacity of 865,000 cusecs, the barrage has been placed on high alert, raising fears for Bahawalpur and Muzaffargarh.
In Muzaffargarh, Deputy Commissioner Usman Tahir Jappa confirmed that the Chenab surge could hit between September 2 and 3, potentially flooding more than 100 villages. Schools in the district have been closed until September 6, and a polio vaccination campaign postponed.
Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the province was experiencing a “super flood,” with over two million people affected and 750,000 displaced. She said 115,000 people had been rescued by boat and 500,000 cattle saved, while 2,207 villages were already inundated. Another 1,000 remain under threat.
Aurangzeb confirmed 38 deaths from collapsing roofs, electrocution and other incidents. Relief operations are being expanded, with 400 veterinary camps, medical units and food supplies dispatched to affected areas. Police have been placed on alert after reports of theft at relief centres, while drones and thermal cameras are being deployed to aid rescues.
In Lahore, schools are set to reopen on September 1 except those in flood-hit zones or converted into relief camps. Parents have been advised to remain in contact with school administrations for updates.
Private organisations are also stepping in. The Edhi Foundation said its marine teams had relocated more than 8,300 people to safer areas around Lahore, while also rescuing animals. Operations remain ongoing in several flood-affected localities.
