The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has warned of potential flooding in the province's rivers over the next 24 hours, with high alert levels issued for key areas.
The PDMA spokesperson has confirmed the possibility of a high-level flood in the Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad areas along the Chenab River.
Floodwater in the Chenab River is expected to rise significantly, with projections of an increase from 200,000 cusecs to 250,000 cusecs. After the release of water in the river by India, the water level at Qadirabad Barrage on Chenab is rising rapidly and the PDMA has directed the area residents to shift to safer places.
In addition, the Ravi River is expected to see a water flow ranging from 40,000 to 55,000 cusecs at Jassar and Shahdara, with the PDMA issuing a low-level flood warning.
A moderate flood situation has already been reported in Nullah Baeen, while a low-level flood persists in Palku. A low-level flood warning has also been issued for the Indus River.
In light of these forecasts, the PDMA, along with local administration, remains on high alert. PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia assured the public that all necessary preparations have been completed in anticipation of the potential flooding. He emphasized that special instructions have been issued to administrations in the Chenab, Ravi, and rivers and nullahs areas to remain vigilant.
Alerts have been dispatched to the commissioners of Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Lahore, Multan, and Sahiwal divisions, as well as deputy commissioners across Punjab. Irfan Ali Kathia has instructed the administrations to remain alert and ordered them to complete all the arrangements in advance.
He said emergency control rooms are fully operational, and rescue teams are prepared to respond to any disaster situations. The staff in the emergency control rooms and Rescue 1122 disaster response teams should also be kept on high alert.
DG Kathia also urged the evacuation of houses and livestock in river basins to minimize risk.
The PDMA has advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and report any civil emergencies to the PDMA's emergency helpline at 1129.
