As monsoon rains continue to lash the region, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a stark warning about the risk of flash flooding in several key divisions of Southern Punjab.
Residents in Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Bahawalpur are urged to remain vigilant as authorities brace for potential flooding.
Despite circulating rumors, PDMA clarified that river water levels remained stable, and India has released no excessive water.
In the next 24 hours, much of Punjab is expected to experience further rainfall, heightening concerns over potential flooding. The PDMA spokesperson cautioned that Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Bahawalpur divisions are particularly at risk of flash floods, with local commissioners already on high alert.
Irfan Ali Kathia, Director General of PDMA, highlighted the current flood situation in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur, which is exacerbated by rainfall in the Sulaiman Mountain range. Medium floodwaters are currently surging through the Rajanpurkaha, Chachar, Patok, and Zangi Road hills, while a high-level flood wave is passing through the Sakhi Sarwar River in Dera Ghazi Khan. In response to these threats, the PDMA, along with local administrations, is fully mobilized, ensuring that citizens living in the path of potential floods have been relocated to safer areas.
In contrast, the water flow in the major rivers—Chenab, Ravi, Jhelum, and Sutlej—remains at normal levels. The PDMA has dispelled widespread rumors suggesting that India has released two lakh cusecs of water into the rivers, assuring the public that these claims are baseless. The water levels in key Indian dams, including Bhakra, Pong, and Orthen, are significantly lower than last year, with Bhakra at 54%, Pong at 53%, and Orthen at 26%.
Meanwhile, water levels in Mangla Dam are at 70% capacity, and Tarbela Dam is nearly full at 99%. Despite the low-level flood situation persisting in the Indus River, the PDMA remains confident in managing the situation and keeping the public informed.
As Southern Punjab braces for more rain, the PDMA's proactive measures and clear communication aim to prevent panic and ensure the safety of those in vulnerable areas.
