The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood alert for rivers and waterways across Punjab, as the fifth and most intense monsoon spell begins today and is expected to continue until July 31. According to the PDMA spokesperson, monsoon showers will affect most districts of Punjab from this evening, with forecasts predicting continued rainfall through the end of the month.

Areas expected to receive significant downpours include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Attock, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Gujrat, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Narowal, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, Sargodha, Mianwali, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Multan. PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned that rain in the upper regions of the rivers could lead to an abnormal rise in water levels, particularly in the Ravi, Jhelum, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers. 

The Indus River at Taunsa is already experiencing a medium-level flood, with water flow recorded at 410,000 cusecs. Meanwhile, low-level flooding is reported at the Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma points of the Indus. DG Kathia instructed all deputy commissioners to remain on the ground and enforce Section 144 strictly around rivers, streams, and nullahs to ensure public safety. He also directed increased patrolling in flood-prone areas. Furthermore, he urged WASA, rescue teams, and district administrations to stay alert and ensure the rapid drainage of water from low-lying areas.

 All chokepoints must be staffed with proper machinery and personnel, and disposal stations must remain fully functional with standby generators in place. DG PDMA emphasised that, under clear directives from the Punjab Chief Minister, private housing societies are responsible for eliminating water ponding. Failure to ensure adequate drainage will result in strict action against them.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)