Multan( The COW News Digital )The mighty waters of the Chenab River have triggered alarms in southern Punjab as the river’s powerful flood surge approaches Multan, threatening widespread destruction. To protect the city, authorities have decided to implement a controlled breach at Head Muhammad Wala, aiming to divert the overwhelming floodwaters and safeguard urban areas.
The district administration has accelerated evacuation operations, relocating approximately 60 percent of Multan’s population to safer locations. Deputy Commissioner Waseem Hamid warned that failing to create the breach could result in massive damage, emphasizing that the next two days are critical as the surge moves from Jhang towards Multan.
Already, 18 villages in Jalalpur Pirwala Tehsil have been engulfed by floodwaters, with a total of 138 settlements affected across the region. In neighboring Muzaffargarh, the situation has become extremely precarious, with preparations underway to breach protective embankments at five key points to control the flood surge.
In Kot Momin, Sargodha, floodwaters have inundated agricultural lands, destroying crops and cutting off ground connectivity to local villages. In Phalia Tehsil, Mandi Bahauddin, 69 villages are completely submerged, with roads rendered impassable and residents trapped.
Hafizabad has also faced severe losses as paddy and fodder crops were destroyed, while in Gujranwala, overflowing Nullah Plakho has severed village connections. Several riverside settlements in Wazirabad have been submerged, highlighting the widespread impact of the Chenab’s fury.
Authorities are urging residents to adhere to evacuation directives and avoid river-adjacent areas to prevent casualties. Emergency services, including rescue teams and relief operations, have been deployed across affected districts to support displaced families and provide essential aid.
Experts stress that the controlled breach is a preventive measure to reduce pressure on Multan’s urban infrastructure and minimize the risk of catastrophic flooding. While the breach may temporarily inundate low-lying areas, officials argue that this strategy is necessary to save the densely populated city and protect thousands of lives.
As the floodwaters continue their destructive journey, the administration is coordinating closely with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to monitor river levels, ensure timely evacuations, and manage emergency responses efficiently. Citizens are advised to stay updated through official channels and follow all safety protocols.
