Chenab remains in high flood as rains lash held Kashmir, Punjab

The Chenab River is currently experiencing high flood levels in sections of Punjab, Pakistan, after torrential rains fell across occupied Kashmir and various parts of Punjab. While water levels have receded to medium flood at Marala and Khanki, they remain high at Qadirabad and Chiniot Bridge, according to an irrigation department official.

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The water level in the Chenab River at Marala and Khanki has subsided to medium flood. However, the river is flowing in high flood at Qadirabad and Chiniot Bridge. It is expected to subside by the time it reaches Trimmu Headworks after passing Chiniot Bridge.

Officials anticipate the river's level will decrease by the time it reaches Trimmu Headworks. However, they caution that a resurgence in water levels at Marala is possible if rainfall persists in occupied Kashmir. Reports from occupied Kashmir are expected Friday, which will provide a clearer picture of the situation.

The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) of Pakistan's Meteorological Department reported high flood levels for the Chenab River at Khanki and Qadirabad, and medium flood at Marala. Other major rivers are flowing at normal levels. The FFD has issued a warning that river flows are likely to increase significantly until July 25 due to a new monsoon spell, which combines a westerly weather system with strong monsoon currents.

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Rains are still continuing in parts of held Kashmir. We will receive Thurs­day’s report from held Kashmir on Friday (today). Let’s see what happens.

In addition to riverine flooding, the FFD predicts flash flooding in hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, streams in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and northern Balochistan. Urban flooding is also a concern for major cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad. Widespread rain, thunderstorms, and isolated heavy falls are forecast for the next 24 hours across upper river catchments, Islamabad, Kashmir, and several districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.

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Consequently, river flows are likely to increase significantly up to July 25.