Flood conditions continue to pose a serious challenge across Punjab as heavy monsoon rains and rising river flows have prompted authorities to remain on high alert.
Provincial departments are closely monitoring water levels in major rivers and barrages, while rescue teams and local administrations have been directed to stay prepared for any emergency.
Officials have urged residents living in low-lying and riverine areas to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories as the monsoon season continues.
According to officials, following heavy rainfall in Indian-occupied Kashmir, India has opened all the gates of the Salal Dam and released a large volume of water towards Pakistan. The move has raised concerns over a possible increase in flood levels in the River Chenab.
The Punjab Irrigation Department said the opening of the dam gates is expected to cause water levels in the Chenab River to rise further. The released water is likely to reach Wazirabad over the next 48 hours.
In view of the anticipated increase in river flows, authorities have issued a high alert in the districts of Sialkot and Wazirabad and directed the local administration and rescue agencies to remain fully prepared for any emergency. Residents living near the river have also been advised to stay alert and follow official instructions.
The water level in the River Chenab at Wazirabad has already started rising following increased inflows from India, according to the latest flood monitoring data.
At Head Marala, the water inflow was recorded at 224,496 cusecs, while the outflow stood at 206,496 cusecs, indicating a high-level flood at the site.
At Khanki Barrage, the inflow reached 126,717 cusecs, with an outflow of 120,867 cusecs. Officials classified the flood situation at Khanki as low-level flooding.
Meanwhile, Head Qadirabad recorded an inflow of 158,539 cusecs and an outflow of 143,539 cusecs. The flood situation at Qadirabad has been assessed as moderate flooding.
The steady rise in water levels along the River Chenab has prompted authorities to intensify monitoring of vulnerable areas.
Officials said the flood situation is being monitored round the clock, and further updates will be issued as water levels change.