Catastrophic flooding in Punjab intensifies, prompting emergency alerts for Multan city, leaving almost 4 million people vulnerable
The monsoon season in Pakistan has brought about a significant challenge, as the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers have overflowed due to heavy rains and dam releases. The surge of the Chenab river has reached its peak at Head Muhammad Wala, posing a threat to the city of Multan.
Multan, an economic hub of southern Punjab with a population of about 2.6 million, is currently in a critical situation. The next 24 hours are crucial as the Chenab surge merges with high flows from the Ravi, a union that could potentially disrupt Multan's economy, given its agricultural and industrial significance.
Persuading riverine communities to evacuate remains the biggest challenge in Sindh. Despite the current estimate of around 150 people evacuated in the southern province of Sindh, warnings indicate that this number could increase in the coming days as the province braces for the combined impact of Punjab's swollen rivers within days.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah is preparing for a potential "super flood" due to cumulative inflows from Punjab. The southern Sindh province is expected to face the brunt of the floods, with thousands of villages potentially inundated.
Reservoirs in Pakistan and India are near capacity. The Tarbela Dam in Pakistan is at 100%, while Mangla is at 87%. In India, Bhakra, Pong, and Thein dams are also above 90%. These high water levels indicate the magnitude of the floods, with the Chenab river flowing at high levels in various points, some showing a falling trend, while others are still rising.
The floods in Punjab have already claimed 46 lives and affected 3.9 million people, displacing 1.8 million. Over 3,900 villages have been affected by the floods in Punjab. The Sutlej is carrying heavy inflows at Ganda Singh Wala, and the Ravi and Sutlej rivers are also flowing at high levels in various points.
The floods have taken a toll nationwide, with more than 883 people having been killed due to rains, floods, and landslides since late June. As the situation continues to evolve, efforts are being made to mitigate the impact and ensure the safety of the affected communities.
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