Islamabad: Punjab has issued a flood alert for the River Sutlej and its tributaries amid concerns that India may release water from its dams within the next 72 hours.

The alert comes as monsoon rains continue to impact Pakistan, causing over 300 deaths and hundreds of injuries since late June, with Punjab reporting the highest casualties.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab warned that rising water levels in Indian reservoirs—Bhakra Dam at 61%, Pong Dam at 76%, and Thein Dam at 64% capacity—could lead to increased flow in the Sutlej River, potentially causing flooding in areas like Ganda Singh village.

Alerts have been sent to officials in multiple cities and districts including Lahore, Multan, Kasur, and Bahawalpur, urging readiness across various departments such as agriculture, irrigation, health, and emergency services.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia emphasized the importance of precautionary measures, advising the public to stay informed and avoid water bodies.

Pakistan, highly vulnerable to climate change, has faced extreme weather events in recent years—including devastating floods in 2022 linked to climate change—which have caused widespread loss and damage.