Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural heart, now faces a dire crisis. Floodwaters from the Ravi River have surged into Shahdara and Saifn, submerging nearby settlements like Farrukhabad, Aziz Colony, Badami Bagh, and Chuhng. Consequently, the situation has grown alarming, with water levels rising rapidly. Authorities have issued urgent evacuation orders, and residents are fleeing their homes to seek safety. Meanwhile, rescue teams are working tirelessly, relocating dozens of people to secure locations.

On August 29, 2025, the Ravi River’s water flow at Shahdara reached a staggering 220,000 cusecs, nearing its capacity of 250,000 cusecs, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). Earlier this week, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reported that India’s release of water into downstream rivers has worsened the crisis, displacing nearly 150,000 people across Punjab. For instance, areas like Bahawalnagar, Kasur, and Okara have already seen mass evacuations. In Lahore alone, 22 villages across five tehsils have been partially or fully evacuated, with 1,208 residents and livestock moved to safety.

Rescue Operations and Relief Efforts Intensify

Rescue operations are in full swing. The Pakistan Army, Rescue 1122, and district administration have mobilized, setting up 10 relief camps in areas like Karol War, Arazi Janjua, and Jia Musa. Moreover, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited Shahdara on August 27, inspecting embankments and urging faster evacuations. She emphasized clearing riverbeds and vowed to improve flood infrastructure. However, the threat persists. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts heavy rainfall from August 29 to September 2, potentially intensifying flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala.

The Kartarpur Corridor, a sacred site, has also been hit hard. Floodwaters have inundated the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, with water levels reaching seven feet. As a result, roads like Narowal Road and Shakargarh Highway are impassable, disrupting access. Despite these challenges, no casualties have been reported in Lahore, and authorities insist the situation is under control. Still, the NDMA warns of further risks downstream, particularly in Jhang and Chiniot, where floodwaters may head next.

For now, residents are urged to stay vigilant, avoid riverbanks, and follow local alerts. Relief efforts continue, with over 1,000 camps aiding 1.46 million people across Punjab. Medical aid has reached over 6,600 individuals, and the government is distributing food and essentials. Nevertheless, with more rain on the horizon, Lahore’s battle against the floods is far from over.