Latest Update: August 27, 2025
Massive flooding across the Punjab region has triggered one of the largest evacuation operations in recent years, with over 150,000 people relocated to safety as India opens multiple dam floodgates following unprecedented rainfall. The crisis has affected both Indian Punjab and neighboring areas of Pakistan, creating a cross-border humanitarian emergency.
Current Situation
The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) opened all four floodgates of the Bhakra Dam on August 19, 2025, after water levels crossed the danger mark of 1,665 feet. The dam’s water levels are currently 35 feet higher than last year, with massive inflows exceeding 70,500 cusecs. Additionally, India has opened all gates of the Thein Dam on the Ravi River, releasing approximately 210,000 cusecs of water downstream.
The flooding has been exacerbated by the opening of floodgates at multiple dams including Pong Dam, with water discharge reaching 75,000 cusecs as of this morning. Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority has confirmed that rescue operations have evacuated more than 14,000 people from Kasur district and 89,000 from Bahawalnagar city near the Indian border.
Affected Areas and Response
In Indian Punjab, the swollen Beas River has impacted 35 villages in Hoshiarpur district, while low-lying areas in Pathankot and Fazilka districts face severe flooding. The Sutlej River at Ganda Singhwala has crossed 188,000 cusecs and could reach 220,000 cusecs, prompting authorities to sound high flood alerts.
The Pakistan Army has deployed troops in eight districts and set up relief camps with district administrations. Water levels in the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers have risen to dangerous heights, making them the most severely impacted.
Weather Forecast and Future Concerns
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned of “very high” flooding in Sindh province expected on September 4-5. Continuous heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh’s catchment areas continues to raise water levels in reservoirs, suggesting the crisis may persist for several days.
Addressing Key Questions
What is the main cause of flooding in India?
Flooding in India occurs mainly due to monsoon rains, poor drainage systems, and rapid urbanization. During heavy rainfall, authorities release excess water from dams to prevent structural damage.
What caused floods in Punjab?
The current Punjab floods result from exceptional monsoon rainfall in catchment areas, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, combined with the synchronized release of water from multiple dams including Bhakra, Pong, and Thein dams.
What is the point of flood gates?
Flood gates serve as safety mechanisms to control water levels in reservoirs. They prevent dam overflow and potential structural failure by releasing excess water in a controlled manner during high inflow periods.
Which areas are flood prone in Punjab?
Flood-prone areas in Punjab include districts along major rivers: Hoshiarpur, Pathankot, Fazilka (along Beas and Sutlej), and border areas near Kasur and Bahawalnagar that receive cross-border water flows.
Why are flood gates opened?
Flood gates are opened when reservoir water levels approach maximum capacity to prevent dam failure, protect infrastructure, and manage water flow downstream. The current opening follows water levels exceeding safe operational limits due to unprecedented rainfall.