LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Tuesday issued a medium level flood warning for the Ravi and Sutlej rivers, raising concerns of potential moderate flooding in the adjacent canals.

In a recent update from the PDMA spokesperson, there is a potential for moderate flooding in the canals adjacent to the Ravi and Chenab rivers.

The dams on the Sutlej and Beas rivers in India are nearing capacity due to substantial water accumulation and anticipated heavy rainfall in the upper regions of the Sutlej and Beas rivers is expected.

On Wednesday, stormy rain conditions are likely in the upper reaches of these major rivers. Monsoon rains are projected to persist until Aug 23, potentially leading to flooding in Gunda Singhwala and surrounding low-lying areas.

As a precautionary measure, an alert has been issued to Divisional Commissioners and the administrative bodies of respective districts.

SMBR and Relief Commissioner of Punjab Nabil Javed has expressed satisfaction with the performance of all institutions during this monsoon season.

He confirmed the availability of essential supplies in districts prone to flooding. Adhering to government directives is crucial and could be life-saving. Cooperation with rescue personnel, who are dedicated to ensuring public safety, is strongly advised.

The PDMA spokesperson emphasized the importance of refraining from waterside activities entirely. In case of emergencies, individuals are encouraged to contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 without delay.

Meanwhile, reports indicated a low-level flood in the Sindh River at Chashma, with 277,623 cusecs upstream and 256,423 cusecs downstream. Other rivers, including Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej, were reported to have normal flow. However, nullah in Azad Jammu and Kashmir were causing a low-level flood in its adjacent localities.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department predicts additional monsoon showers in the upper regions of the country. They caution that moderate to heavy precipitation could result in heightened water flow in local nullahs and streams across various areas, including Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Buner, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad.

Meanwhile, the city received light rain in Johar Town, Model Town, Faisal Town, Liberty, Garden Town, Gulberg, and Defence areas. Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa directed the management to remain vigilant and clear major roads of the city from water.

Published in Dawn, August 16th, 2023