New Flood Surge from India Worsens Crisis in Southern Punjab, Famine and Disease Feared

MULTAN (Special Correspondent) A massive new flood surge of 550,000 cusecs has been released into the Chenab River from India, dramatically escalating the ongoing flood crisis in southern Punjab and intensifying the suffering of affected communities.

The fresh influx of water arrived even as the region was still reeling from a previous flood wave. Critical water management points are reporting dangerously high levels: Marala Headworks recorded an inflow of 550,000 cusecs, while Khanki and Qadirabad Headworks are dealing with outflows of 532,834 and 399,686 cusecs, respectively.

The situation is compounded by high volumes in the Ravi River, where Sidhnai Headworks reported an inflow and outflow of 161,150 cusecs. This water is expected to merge with the Chenab at Kabirwala, threatening a further rise in water levels and increasing the risk of catastrophic damage across Multan and adjoining districts.

With a flood surge of over 400,000 cusecs currently passing through Multan, riverine areas remain submerged, creating an acute shortage of fodder for livestock—a critical source of livelihood for many. Affected communities are also reporting a severe lack of timely and sufficient distribution of rations and food.

Read more: Monsoon Fury: 881 Dead as Floods Worsen Across Pakistan; NDMA Issues Red Alert

There are growing concerns about public health, with fears of widespread outbreaks of skin diseases and water-borne epidemics in the flood-ravaged regions. Local authorities are under increasing pressure to scale up relief efforts and provide essential supplies to prevent a full-blown humanitarian disaster.