Monsoon rains have intensified concerns about potential flooding in Punjab's rivers and streams. According to the spokesperson for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the province is facing heightened flood risks due to the ongoing rains.
The PDMA has reported that while a low-level flood situation persists in the Indus River, a high-level flood is anticipated in the Chenab River within the next 24 hours. The water level in the Chenab is expected to rise to between 200,000 and 250,000 cusecs.
In preparation for this, all necessary flood management arrangements have been completed, as confirmed by director general of PDMA, Irfan Ali Kathia.
Currently, the flow of water in the Ravi River at Jassar and Shahdara remains at normal levels, according to the PDMA. However, the authority has issued a warning for potential flooding in other rivers and streams throughout Punjab.
Meanwhile, the PDMA has forecasted further monsoon rains across several districts, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Gujrat, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Sahiwal. In response, DG Irfan Ali Kathia has directed all deputy commissioners to stay vigilant and prepared for potential flood scenarios.
The situation remains under close monitoring, with emergency measures and flood management protocols in place to mitigate risks and protect residents from potential damage caused by the anticipated heavy rains and rising river levels.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also issued an alert for upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning of severe storms and heavy rainfall expected over the next two days. The regions of Swat, Dir, and Chitral are particularly at risk with the possibility of flooding during the downpours.
The NDMA has also alerted relevant departments to be prepared for the upcoming weather conditions. Areas including Malakand, Buner, and Shangla are expected to face similar threats of heavy rain and potential flooding.
Authorities have issued directives to all concerned departments to remain on high alert and ready to respond to any emergencies. There are additional warnings of rising water levels in rivers and streams, as well as the potential for landslides in these regions.
