Madhopur Dam Gate Collapse in Pathankot: 50 Missing, Villages Submerged Amid Heavy Rainfall

August 27, 2025

Punjab is already reeling under heavy rains, with water released from dams inundating seven districts of the state. Amid this, reports have emerged of a breach at the Madhopur Dam, leaving several people stranded.

A CRPF helicopter has arrived at the site to rescue those trapped, including some CRPF personnel stranded on the other side.

According to initial information, three to four flood gates of the Madhopur Head have reportedly collapsed. The dam normally holds back water released from the Ranjit Sagar Dam and gradually releases it into Punjab. However, due to excessive water flow, the structure has been severely damaged. Unconfirmed reports suggest that a person who came to operate the gates was also swept away.

Around 16 people, including CRPF jawans and dam employees, are believed to be trapped inside. The helicopter is assessing the situation and carrying out rescue operations.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Barnala, Sangrur, and Mansa districts on Wednesday. Continuous downpours in the hilly regions have caused the water level of the Ravi river to rise rapidly.

Currently, nearly 20 villages are under floodwaters, and around 50 villages are without electricity due to the shutdown of sub-stations.