The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab issued a flood advisory on Monday, anticipating a seventh spell of monsoon rains from August 13. The PDMA’s advisory stated that the new monsoon spell is likely to cause a rise in water levels in major rivers such as the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum, as well as their adjoining streams and tributaries.
The PDMA has warned of potential flooding in low-lying and riverine areas due to the expected heavy rainfall. Commissioners, deputy commissioners, and all relevant departments have been instructed to remain on high alert. Meanwhile, Punjab PDMA Director Irfan Ali Kathia has urged local authorities to ensure the evacuation of residents and livestock from riverbanks. He also reminded the public that swimming in rivers, canals, and other water bodies is strictly prohibited during the emergency period. Citizens are advised to contact the PDMA’s helpline at 1129 in case of any emergency.
The recent monsoon rains have caused widespread destruction across Pakistan, with urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides leading to over 300 deaths and significant damage to infrastructure. Gilgit-Baltistan, a popular tourist destination, was also hit hard by flash floods and landslides. Last month, Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan reported that at least 10 people were killed and four were injured in the region.
Last week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Gilgit-Baltistan to distribute compensation checks to flood-affected families and directed the immediate restoration of damaged infrastructure as part of a Rs4 billion relief package. During his visit, the Prime Minister handed over compensation checks of Rs1 million to the next of kin of those who lost their lives. He offered prayers for the deceased and the swift recovery of the injured, stating that he had come to show solidarity with the victims. “Pakistan is among the countries most affected by climate change,” the Prime Minister said while addressing the check-distribution ceremony, and called for the establishment of an advanced warning system to mitigate future disaster risks.
