Punjab Faces Escalating Flood Threat as IMD Warns of Heavy Rains, Dam Pressure Mounts

Chandigarh, August 29, 2025: Punjab is preparing for a worsening flood situation after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall on August 30 and 31. With several rivers already flowing above danger levels, authorities fear the next spell of rain could trigger fresh inundation across vulnerable districts.

Large parts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, and Fazilka are already underwater following continuous rain and the release of water from Bhakra and Pong dams. Fields, homes, and roads remain submerged, leaving villages cut off from relief supplies. Rescue teams from NDRF and SDRF are carrying out evacuations as the state battles rising waters.

Officials warn that the fresh rainfall will worsen the crisis. Already saturated ground is unable to absorb more water, and dams are under pressure, raising the risk of further water releases downstream. This could lead to a rapid escalation in flooding across both urban and rural belts.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has ordered all departments to stay on emergency duty and directed district administrations to strengthen relief measures. Schools across the state will remain closed until August 30 as a precautionary step. Citizens have been urged to stay alert and avoid flood-prone zones during the critical period.