Amidst heavy rainfall in various districts of Punjab, including Lahore, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an emergency alert.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has instructed deputy commissioners across the province to remain vigilant and prepared to address any emergency situations that may arise. "All departments concerned must be on high alert to deal with potential emergencies," he emphasized.
The District Emergency Operation Centres in all districts have also been put on alert to ensure swift response and coordination. The PDMA control room is actively monitoring the situation round the clock to manage and mitigate any adverse impacts of the rain.
The DG has directed Rescue 1122 and other rescue agencies to keep their machinery and personnel ready for immediate deployment. Emphasis has been placed on the swift drainage of water from low-lying areas to prevent flooding and waterlogging.
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Citizens are advised to exercise caution and avoid areas with electric poles and hanging wires. "Stay away from old and dilapidated buildings," warned the DG PDMA. Special care should be taken to protect children, ensuring they do not go near accumulated water in low-lying areas.
For assistance, citizens can contact PDMA's helpline at 1129. The spokesperson for PDMA reassured that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard the public and manage the situation effectively.
As the rainfall continues, the PDMA remains on high alert, ready to respond to any emergencies that may occur, ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents of Punjab.
Alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Meanwhile, amidst predictions of heavy rainfall, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a 24-hour alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging provincial institutions to prepare for potential emergency situations.
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The NDMA has forecasted more rain in several districts, including Charsadda, Chitral, Mansehra, Peshawar, Shangla, and Swat. The authority has warned that cities could experience significant flooding if rainfall exceeds 50 to 100mm. Additionally, there is a heightened risk of flooding in canals and streams and landslides in mountainous regions.
In response to these warnings, the NDMA has instructed provincial institutions to ensure the availability of necessary equipment, machinery, and rescue personnel in areas at risk.
The NDMA has also issued safety advisories for the public, urging people to avoid crossing or entering floodwaters. These precautions are critical to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in affected areas.
