Multan(Kyhber Point)A severe flood emergency has gripped southern Punjab as the water level in River Chenab at Shershah crossed the “extremely dangerous” mark, while breaches in the Sidhnai Canal have inundated vast areas, putting Multan at serious risk over the next 24 hours.
According to local administration, the Sidhnai Canal has received nearly four times its capacity, resulting in a major breach that submerged Basti Khokhran and several nearby settlements. Rescue teams are working urgently to plug the breach, but the inflow continues to rise.
The Ravi River at Head Sidhnai is experiencing high flood levels, with excess water spilling into link canals. This has caused breaches in the Rango Canal at two points, inundating dozens of localities. Authorities confirmed that the breach is being filled but pressure remains dangerously high.
Commissioner Multan reported that floodwater levels at Akbar Bund have reached 414 feet, with the maximum danger level set at 417 feet. Officials warned that if levels continue to rise, a controlled cut at Head Muhammadwala may be executed to divert floodwaters and protect populated areas. Several villages, including Akbar Pur, Basti Baksh Wala, and Basti Kotwal, are already underwater.
Flood relief camps have been set up, and evacuations are underway as families move to safer grounds. Meanwhile, 95% of residents in low-lying areas of Burewala and Mailsi have been evacuated as Sutlej River also faces high flood conditions at Head Islam and Jamlera.
Director General PDMA Punjab, Irfan Ali Kathia, said in a televised interview that over 1.3 million acres of land and nearly 4,000 villages are affected across Punjab. He warned that the coming 24 hours are critical for Multan as floodwaters continue to rise, calling the situation “unprecedented in recent history.”
