Monsoon warning: Punjab on high alert as heavy rains trigger flood alert

The eighth spell of monsoon rains has intensified flood risks across Punjab, with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issuing a high alert in multiple districts.

Authorities warn of possible urban flooding, river overflow, and land erosion in vulnerable areas as water levels rise in major rivers. The Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rains in the next 24 hours.

Heavy rains predicted, PDMA on alert

According to the Meteorological Department, the ongoing monsoon spell will continue until August 27, bringing heavy downpours to Murree, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Chakwal. 

The PDMA has cautioned that the next 48 hours pose serious risks of flooding, particularly in rivers Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej, as well as in low-lying urban areas of Lahore, Gujranwala, and Rawalpindi divisions. Officials also warned of flash flooding in northern and northeastern districts of Punjab.

Flood situation in rivers and dams

The situation in Punjab’s major rivers remains critical:

• Sutlej River: Water flow rises and high-level flooding continues at Ganda Singh Wala and Harike, with fears of riverbanks overflowing in Bahawalpur, where land erosion has already begun in areas like Mari Qasim Shah. Water flow in the river and its adjacent streams will increase, as per the PDMA spokesperson. 

• Chenab River: Moderate flooding is being reported at Marala and Khanki barrages, with water inflows exceeding 98,000 cusecs at Head Marala, 122,000 cusecs at Khanki, and over 114,000 cusecs at Qadirabad. 

• Dams: Tarbela Dam has reached 100% capacity, while Mangla Dam is at 76%.

In Sialkot, authorities are on high alert as possible flooding from the Chenab and its tributaries, Jammu Tawi and Manawar Tawi, threatens at least 18 villages. Mosque announcements have urged residents to move to safer places. 

Marala Barrage Engineer Bilal Ahmed said the irrigation department, rescue, and administration officials are on high alert. 

CM Maryam orders emergency measures

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the administration to ensure timely evacuation from flood-prone areas and provide maximum relief to affected families.

Her orders include:

• Evacuation of people and livestock from vulnerable areas near rivers and streams.

• Establishment of temporary shelters with proper food, medical care, and treatment facilities.

• Availability of snakebite vaccines in flood-hit regions.

• Round-the-clock monitoring of flooding in Kasur, Pakpattan, Taunsa, and adjoining areas.

She stressed that all resources must be mobilized to prevent loss of life and property.