The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has issued a warning about the potential for flooding in rivers. This warning is a response to heavy rains in the country’s upper regions and the anticipated release of water from India in the coming days.
A PDMA spokesperson stated, “There is a fear that India may release water into the Sutlej River in the next two days.” He added that Indian dams have shown an unusual increase in their water levels, with the Bhakra, Pong, and Thein dams reaching 61%, 76%, and 64% of their total capacity, respectively.
In light of a medium to high-level flood warning for the Chenab River, the PDMA director general (DG) announced that the situation of rivers and dams is being monitored around the clock. The official also cautioned that the water flow in the Sutlej River is expected to increase further.
This announcement follows a flood advisory issued by the authority yesterday, as the province prepares for the seventh spell of monsoon rains starting from August 13. This new monsoon spell is likely to cause a rise in water levels in major rivers, including the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum, as well as their associated streams and tributaries. The advisory has instructed commissioners, deputy commissioners, and all relevant departments to remain on high alert.
The recent monsoon spell has already caused widespread devastation across Pakistan, leading to urban and flash floods, and landslides. These events have resulted in over 300 deaths, with many people still missing and significant damage to infrastructure. Gilgit-Baltistan, a popular tourist destination, was also severely affected 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 due to floods triggered by intense monsoon rains.
