Multan is on high alert as authorities warn that the Sher Shah Bridge has reached a critical danger level, raising fears of severe flooding that could submerge dozens of villages. Across Punjab, the ongoing floods have already claimed 46 lives and affected nearly 3.9 million people, displacing countless others.
Rising Waters from India Increase Pressure on Punjab
Irfan Ali Kathia, Director General of the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), said that India’s warning about potential water surges at the Harike Barrage has been shared promptly with relevant local authorities. The Chenab and Ravi rivers are channeling large volumes of water toward Multan district, while regions including Mandi Bahauddin and Jhang are also at risk of flooding.
Sher Shah Bridge in Peril
The PDMA has flagged the gauge level at Sher Shah Bridge as exceeding the danger mark. Kathia cautioned that, if officials are forced to breach the bridge to release water, between 24 and 35 villages—including Sher Shah, Akbar Pul, and Mirzapur—could face severe inundation. “We hope the water will pass naturally without breaching, but we are preparing for all contingencies,” he said.
Monitoring Water Levels: Mixed Signals
While the situation at Head Muhammad Wala in Multan is reportedly stable, with technical teams on-site, other areas are more precarious. Water levels at Head Marala on the Chenab are decreasing, but Head Sidhnai on the Ravi River remains a concern, as the outflow has only reduced slightly to 130,000–135,000 cusecs. About 100,000 cusecs of water near Shahdara continue downstream, merging with the Chenab and creating potential backwater effects if Safooran Dam is operated.
Human Impact and Ongoing Relief Efforts
The scale of devastation across Punjab is immense:
- Lives lost: 46
- People affected: 3.875 million
- Rescued: 1.8 million trapped in floodwaters
- Villages affected: 3,951
- Relief infrastructure: 410 relief camps, 444 medical camps, 395 veterinary clinics
- Livestock saved: 1.322 million animals relocated
The army and emergency teams are working round-the-clock to evacuate residents, provide medical aid, and care for livestock.
Dam Levels and Forecasts Add Urgency
Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed reported high water levels in major reservoirs:
- Mangla Dam: 87% full
- Tarbela Dam: 100% full
- Bhakra (India): 84% full
- Pong (India): 98% full
- Thein (India): 92% full
Monsoon rains continue to batter Punjab, with new spells expected in the next 24 hours, heightening concerns for already strained river systems.
Government Pledges Support for Affected Citizens
On the direction of Punjab Chief Minister, compensation plans are underway for those affected, with a focus on farmers. Damage assessments are being conducted to ensure timely financial aid, while relief agencies coordinate efforts to minimize further losses.
