The ongoing Punjab floods have forced school closures, resulting education authorities to extend summer vacations in multiple districts. A notification confirmed that 18 schools in Jhelum will remain closed for another week, resuming on September 8.

In Vihari, schools reopened as scheduled, but 60 institutions located in flood-hit areas will remain shut until the situation improves. Officials said the closures were necessary to ensure the safety of students and staff as floodwaters continue to rise in surrounding areas.

High Flood Levels Reported Across Major Rivers

The Flood Forecasting Division has sounded alarms over dangerous water levels in Punjab’s major rivers. At Balloki on the Ravi River, inflow and outflow reached 175,995 cusecs, placing it in the high flood category. Authorities said embankments were being monitored closely to prevent breaches.

The Sutlej River is also swelling, with 134,970 cusecs recorded at Sulemanki. Officials warned that surrounding settlements could face inundation if inflows continue at the current pace.

In Lahore, the Ravi River at Shahdara is under strain, with medium-level flooding reported as 67,900 cusecs of water pass through. Residents along low-lying areas have been advised to stay alert and prepare for possible evacuation.

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Chenab River Sees Heaviest Surge

The Chenab River is facing the heaviest surge of all. At Trimmu, inflows and discharge peaked at 479,743 cusecs, putting the river firmly in the high flood category. Authorities fear this could lead to further displacement in dozens of downstream villages already struggling with rising waters.

Rescue teams have been deployed to assist families in evacuating to safer areas. Officials confirmed that food, shelter, and medical supplies are being provided to flood victims. Livestock owners are also being supported with fodder supplies to protect animals from starvation.

Relief Efforts Underway

Provincial disaster management officials said relief operations were being carried out in coordination with local administrations. Camps have been established in flood-prone districts to shelter displaced families, with tents, rations, and clean water supplied.

Farmers in affected districts expressed concern about extensive crop damage, particularly in cotton and rice fields now submerged. Agriculture experts fear long-term economic impacts if flooding continues into the harvest season.

Government and Agencies on High Alert

The Punjab government has directed deputy commissioners and district administrations to remain on high alert. Engineers from the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) are monitoring water flows at major barrages to prevent breaches.

Officials urged residents living near embankments and riverbanks to cooperate with rescue teams and move to designated safe areas. Authorities also appealed to the public not to underestimate the risks posed by medium-level floods, noting that continuous inflows could quickly escalate the danger.

Education Sector Faces Prolonged Disruptions

The extension of school closures adds to the challenges already faced by families in flood-hit areas. With education disrupted and children unable to attend classes, local communities worry about prolonged academic setbacks.

Officials said they were exploring the possibility of temporary learning arrangements in relief camps, but resources remain stretched as priority is being given to life-saving efforts.

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