MULTAN: Floods have continued to destroy southern Punjab as another part of the M-5 Motorway near Jalalpur Pirwala collapsed, leaving a vital transport route cut off for the eighth straight day.
According to the Multan Chief Police Officer, the eastern side of the motorway gave way after a breach created by powerful flood currents. The western side of the same section had already been washed away earlier, further damaging the road link.
Teams from the Motorway Police and the National Highway Authority (NHA), assisted by heavy machinery, are working nonstop to control the situation and restore the road.
Officials said water from the Sutlej River is pushing with strong pressure toward the Chenab River, which increases the risk of more damage.
Rescue workers are trying to reduce the water flow by filling the breach with large stones and other materials to stop further erosion.
Despite these efforts, the Multan–Jhangra section of the M-5 remains closed, badly affecting both passenger and cargo movement between Punjab and Sindh.
A Motorway Police spokesperson advised travelers to use alternative routes until repairs are completed.
Vehicles from Multan going toward Sukkur can exit at Shah Shams Interchange and divert to the National Highway, rejoining the M-5 at Uch Sharif Interchange.
Those coming from Sukkur can leave the motorway at Uch Sharif and re-enter at Sher Shah Interchange. Authorities have asked drivers to remain cautious and check road conditions before traveling.
The breach has highlighted the rising threat of seasonal flooding in the region, which has already displaced many people and damaged infrastructure.
Officials said repair work may take several days, depending on the weather and when the floodwaters recede.