Pakistan warns of Sutlej River flooding as monsoon deaths surpass 300
The Sutlej, one of the five rivers that flow through Punjab province, runs from the Himalayas through India into eastern Pakistan. The alert comes as Pakistan continues to grapple with widespread monsoon damage.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), more than half of the 302 deaths since July 26 have occurred due to house collapses, followed by drownings and flash floods. Over 700 people have also been injured.
'As of 5 August 2025, River Sutlej's discharge at downstream Ferozepur (Ganda Singh Wala) rose sharply from 28,657 to 33,653 cusecs within an hour, indicating an upward trend,' the NDMA's National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) said in a statement.
'While the situation currently remains normal, further rise is anticipated due to forecasted heavy rainfall over Sutlej and Beas catchments in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as releases from Pong Dam [in India] through the power station.'
The NEOC warned the Bhakra and Pong dams, currently at 55 percent and 56 percent of their storage capacity, may soon release additional water, potentially pushing the Sutlej to low flood levels at Ganda Singh Wala during the week.
The statement said monsoon currents are actively penetrating upper and central Pakistan, with a westerly trough persisting over the north. The meteorological outlook for August 5 to 7 includes scattered heavy to very heavy rainfall in several regions, which could further swell rivers and canals.
Authorities have urged residents in flood-prone areas, particularly those near canals, seasonal water streams and flood plains, to remain alert, limit travel during adverse weather and avoid entering rising waters.
Local administrations have been directed to ensure drainage systems are cleared and emergency response teams are on high alert for potential evacuations or rescue operations.
Citizens have also been advised to secure valuables and livestock and monitor official guidance via the NDMA's Disaster Alert app and media updates.
NDMA said it was monitoring the situation in coordination with provincial and district authorities.
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