Lahore's unchecked expansion onto Ravi floodplain heightens flood risk

An analysis of satellite imagery spanning 35 years reveals Lahore's rapid urban expansion into the natural floodplain of the River Ravi, raising concerns about the land's diminishing capacity to absorb floodwaters during monsoon seasons. Images from the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) show a stark contrast between 1990, when urban settlements were compact and set back from the river, and 2025, when development aggressively encroached upon the riverbanks and former agricultural lands. This expansion has significantly narrowed the floodplain, limiting its ability to manage excess water. Suparco warns that this reduced capacity makes settlements more vulnerable to overtopping banks and severe damage. The situation is compounded by the Indus Waters Treaty, which allocates the Ravi's waters to India. While Pakistan previously received advance flood information from India, this communication ceased in 2025 after India unilaterally put the treaty in abeyance. This loss of early warning systems leaves Pakistan without crucial data on river flow fluctuations. Experts emphasize the need for detailed hydrological studies before further urban or agricultural expansion into the floodplain, while the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) claims protective measures are in place for developed areas.

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As a result, floodwaters are more likely to overtop banks, inundate settlements and cause severe damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.