True test of Punjab's infrastructure, preparedness now at Panjnad as floodwater moves past central districts

The water level in Punjab’s rivers is expected to rise further after the High Commission of India informed Pakistan of more floodwater from the Harike and Ferozepur headworks, according to the Pakistan Commission for Indus Water.

According to an advisory issued by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), “Harike and Ferozepur along the Sutlej in India are at high flood level as of 8am on Sept 1, which will affect the water levels in the respective downstream districts.”

Northern India has witnessed continuous heavy rainfall in recent weeks, particularly in river catchments that flow into Pakistan. Indian forecasts warn the next 36 hours will be critical in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab due to the likelihood of more heavy showers.

In Pakistan, river flows remain dangerously high. As of early Tuesday morning, the Chenab at Trimmu recorded an outflow of 532,498 cusecs — categorised as a “very high” flood — with water levels expected to approach 700,000 cusecs in the coming days.

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The Ravi River is also surging, with Balloki Headworks registering 144,675 cusecs and Sidhnai Headworks 105,604 cusecs, both rising steadily. Meanwhile, the Sutlej poses a severe threat at Ganda Singh Wala, where an “exceptionally high” flood continues with outflows of 253,068 cusecs. Authorities warn that nearly one million cusecs could converge at Panjnad between Sept 4 and 5.

The Punjab government, describing the situation as its “largest rescue and relief operation,” has shifted focus to the southern districts.

“The water has passed the major central Punjab population centres, but the true test of our infrastructure and preparedness is now at Panjnad and the areas beyond," a senior government officials said, as quoted by an English daily. "We are monitoring it on a minute-by-minute basis.”