Lahore (September 1, 2025): Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has confirmed that India has formally alerted the federal government about the possibility of another flood wave, raising concerns across several districts already reeling under devastation.
Addressing a press conference, Uzma Bukhari said Punjab is in the grip of a “super flood,” with the Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers all experiencing simultaneous high flows. She explained that the province had endured three months of monsoon rains before India released water, which intensified the destruction.
According to her, the situation is particularly critical in Jhang, Sahiwal, Toba Tek Singh, Okara, and Bahawalpur, where authorities have been put on high alert for the next 48 hours. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is currently visiting Jhang to personally review relief and security arrangements.
Bukhari revealed that between 2,200 to 2,500 villages have been affected so far. “We had initiated evacuation well in advance, but the speed of the floodwaters was such that neither humans nor animals could escape on their own,” she said, adding that livestock rescue operations are also underway. She noted that more than 1.6 million people have been affected by flooding in the Chenab River belt alone, with over 344,000 shifted to safer locations.
The provincial minister further stated that once the rescue phase concludes, a comprehensive report will be compiled to determine which river belts have seen illegal or unsafe settlements. “No NOC has been issued to any illegal housing society under the current Punjab government,” she clarified, adding that new developments are only being approved under strict regulations.
Bukhari also highlighted that the Chief Minister has directed the establishment of a Lost and Found Department for livestock. Centers have been set up in all districts to help farmers recover animals swept away in the floods. “Drones are being used to identify families or livestock still trapped, so immediate rescue can be carried out,” she said.
This latest warning from India comes at a time when Punjab is already struggling with one of the worst flood disasters in recent years, leaving officials bracing for even greater challenges ahead.
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