The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a flood alert for the River Sutlej and its adjoining streams, warning of possible water release by India in the next 72 hours.

According to the PDMA spokesperson, water levels in Indian dams rose sharply last week, raising the risk of low-level flooding at Ganda Singh Wala in the Sutlej.

Additional water releases from upstream reservoirs could further increase the river’s flow.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said that currently, India’s Bhakra Dam is 61% full, Pong Dam has reached 76% capacity, and Thein Dam is at 64%.

He has directed commissioners of Lahore, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Dera Ghazi Khan divisions, along with rescue and disaster response teams, to remain on high alert.

Kathia added that the situation of rivers is being monitored round-the-clock and instructed that the public be kept updated on developments in real time.