Breaches planned to protect Jalalpur

The government is preparing additional controlled breaches along the Multan-Sukkur Motorway (M-5) to manage floodwaters threatening Jalalpur Pirwala and surrounding areas, with multiple agencies working in coordination.

This was disclosed during a special meeting on Thursday chaired by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan and attended by Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, provincial ministers, the federal communications secretary, NHA chairman, Commissioner Multan, and senior officials from NESPAK, the Irrigation Department, Sui Gas, and Water Services.

Officials reported that floodwaters have damaged the M-5 at five points, inundating villages in Multan, Lodhran, and Bahawalpur districts, including Phagal Marhi, Hayatpur, Jhanmp, Soiwala, and Muradpur.

The deluge has also reached Uch Sharif, submerging nearby settlements such as Jhangra and Basti Mir Chakar Rind. Severe damage forced the closure of the Multan-Uch Sharif section of the motorway, with diversions in place until water recedes and repairs are completed. NHA teams are working round the clock to restore traffic flow, particularly near Jalalpur Pirwala. A technical committee was formed to monitor the situation continuously and recommend timely measures.

Addressing the meeting, Minister Aleem Khan said floodwaters had spread up to 20 kilometers on both sides of the motorway. "Breaking the motorway was not an easy decision, but safeguarding the lives and property of citizens takes precedence," he said.

He stressed that protecting Jalalpur Pirwala city remains the foremost priority, with the NHA working in close coordination with the Punjab government. "Whatever decision the Punjab government takes, NHA and other institutions will fully support it," he added.