Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood alert for the Sutlej River and its connected streams, warning of a possible low-level flood at Ganda Singh Wala.The authority said India may release water into the river within the next 72 hours, which, along with the release from upstream reservoirs, could increase the water flow. 

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said water levels in Indian dams have risen significantly over the past week, with Bhakra Dam now 61 percent full, Pong Dam at 76 percent, and Thein Dam at 64 percent. Commissioners of Lahore, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Dera Ghazi Khan, as well as deputy commissioners of Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Vehari, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Multan, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, have been placed on alert. 

The PDMA, IRSA, and the irrigation department are monitoring the situation round the clock. Alerts have also been issued to the local government, agriculture, health, forestry, livestock, and transport departments. Emergency control rooms have been instructed to remain staffed 24 hours a day, and Rescue 1122 disaster response teams are on high alert. 

The public has been advised to follow safety instructions, avoid swimming in rivers, canals, streams, and ponds, and cooperate with authorities in case of emergency evacuation. Citizens can report emergencies to the PDMA helpline at 1129.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)