Chandigarh: The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert in parts of Punjab as heavy rainfall continues to lash the state. Districts adjoining Himachal Pradesh — Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, and Rupnagar — are expected to receive above-normal rainfall over the next 24 hours.
The situation turned critical after the Ranjit Sagar Dam touched its danger level of 527 meters. Authorities have released surplus water, leading to a sharp rise in the water levels of the Ravi, Ujja and Chakki rivers. Several low-lying areas in Punjab’s Majha region are now under the threat of flooding.
High Alert in Border Districts
Officials have already closed the Pathankot–Jammu highway due to overflowing water, while a high alert has been sounded across districts from Pathankot to Amritsar. Residents in Ajnala have been strictly advised to stay away from the swollen Ravi.
In Gurdaspur’s Dinanagar area, the confluence of the Ravi and Ujja rivers at Makouda Port has led to waterlogging. Seven border villages — Toor, Chebe, Mammi Chak Ranga, Bhariyal, Lasian, Jhumbar and Kajla — have been cut off after connecting roads were submerged.
Rainfall and Temperature Update
Several cities recorded significant rainfall: Amritsar (7 mm), Ludhiana (53.4 mm), Patiala (3.4 mm), Fazilka (14.5 mm), Ferozepur (67 mm), Mohali (23.5 mm) and Pathankot (32.5 mm). Despite the downpour, the state’s average temperature has risen by 2.8°C, placing it about 2.6°C above the seasonal norm.
Forecast Ahead
The Met Department has warned of continued rainfall in the four districts through tomorrow. A brief pause is expected on Wednesday and Thursday, but another strong spell of monsoon showers is predicted to begin from Friday, August 29.
Authorities have urged people in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow advisories from the district administration.
