Islamabad | Lahore – August 27, 2025 — The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab have carried out large-scale evacuation operations, relocating nearly 150,000 people from flood-prone areas of Punjab as the province braces for heavy monsoon rains, glacial melt, and surging river flows.
According to NDMA, the evacuations were conducted in response to “high flood” warnings in the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab rivers. Emergency teams remain deployed across vulnerable districts to ensure public safety and minimize loss of life.
Breakdown of Evacuations (NDMA Data)
- Bahawalnagar: 89,868 people
- Kasur: 14,140 people
- Okara: 2,063 people
- Pakpattan: 873 people
- Bahawalpur: 361 people
- Vehari: 165 people
In addition, 40,000 residents moved voluntarily to safer areas following early warnings.
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High Flood Situation in Sutlej
The Sutlej River at Ferozepur downstream has reached 195,000 cusecs, creating an extremely high flood situation. Water levels in adjoining streams and drains are expected to rise further, prompting the PDMA to maintain full-scale emergency readiness.
Directives from Punjab CM and PDMA
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered immediate evacuation of vulnerable populations living near rivers and low-lying regions, directing all departments to remain in full preparedness.
PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that, in line with CM directives, all necessary arrangements are being completed. “We urge citizens to fully cooperate with the district administration and rescue agencies. For any emergency, people can contact the PDMA helpline at 1129,” he stated.
Alerts have been issued to Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners of Lahore, Sahiwal, Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Vehari, Bahawalnagar, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Muzaffargarh.
National & Regional Coordination
The NDMA has directed all institutions and emergency services to remain vigilant. Citizens are strongly advised to avoid flood-prone areas, refrain from unnecessary travel, and follow safety guidelines communicated through official alerts.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has also issued warnings of intensifying rainfall in Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Lahore divisions, raising the risk of both riverine and urban flooding.
Separately, in response to a flood alert from India, more than 24,000 people have already been evacuated from low-lying areas along the Indus, Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers since Saturday, according to Rescue 1122.
National Call for Vigilance
The government reiterated that all citizens must remain alert and follow evacuation orders to prevent loss of life. NDMA and PDMA continue to monitor the evolving situation and are working in coordination with federal and provincial institutions to safeguard communities across Punjab.
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