Severe flood wave in Chenab puts Multan at risk

MULTAN: The floodwaters surging through the Chenab have forced emergency measures, including a planned breach at the Shershah embankment, to protect Multan and adjoining areas.

Authorities have described the flood situation in the Chenab as increasingly critical, declaring the next 48 hours decisive for Multan.

According to irrigation officials, water levels are rising steadily at Head Muhammad Wala and Shershah. In an emergency move, the Irrigation Department announced a controlled breach at the Shershah embankment to reduce pressure.

Sources said the water level at Head Muhammad Wala has reached 413.15 feet, just below the critical threshold of 417 feet. At Shershah, the level has climbed to 393 feet, with risks mounting by the hour.

What is more worrisome is that the second largest flooding rally consisting of 500,000 cusecs is about to enter Multan in the next 36 hours, which can adversely affect the lower areas.

According to the irrigation department, the purpose of deliberately putting a crack in Shershah embankment is to reduce the flood pressure, but the move will severely affect the areas like Shershah, azGagra Kachor, Wal Wat Mor, and Mauza Hamr, where floodwaters are feared to enter rapidly.

According to local officials, announcements are being made to raise public awareness regarding the breaking of Shershah embankment , which is said that after an hour, Shershah will be broken and the residents of the area are being directed to move to a safer place along with their children.

Rescue agencies are on alert, while the Pakistan Army and the civil administration have devised a strategy to deal with a possible emergency.