SWABI: Tarbela Dam authorities have advised the people, living along the banks of River Indus, to take precautionary measures as they have planned to open the spillways in the current flood season during the next two or three days, officials told Dawn on Friday.

A notification, issued by the dam authorities said, “It is notified for the information of all concerned that service spillways of Tarbela dam are likely to be put into operation for the 1st time in the flood season 2024 within the next 03 days.” It further said that excess water discharge from dam might vary from low to medium level, and all necessary precautionary arrangements should be made by the people to avoid loss of life and property.

Zahid Khan of Hund village told Dawn over the phone that the people always took extra precautionary measures to protect their lives and valuables during flood season. He said that the release of excess water from dam usually caused flooding in low lying areas.

The dam officials advised the local people to refrain from going to the downstream areas along the river to ensure their safety.

Meanwhile, Swabi Deputy Commissioner Dr Tariqullah said that the people should take timely precautionary measures and should follow the advice of the dam authorities to avoid any losses, following the opening of the spillways. He said that in case of any emergency, the public should call Rescue 1122 for reporting any incident during the monsoon season.

MARTYRDOM DAY OBSERVED: The 25th martyrdom day of Captain Karnal Sher Khan was observed here on Friday.

According to ISPR, The armed forces of Pakistan, the chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and services chiefs paid a heartfelt tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider.

During the Kargil conflict on the Line of Control in 1999, he emerged as the symbol of mettle and courage, and inflicted heavy losses on the Indian forces while defending the five strategic posts at the height of 17,000 feet in Gultary. He was martyred while gallantly defending the motherland, and was decorated with country`s highest gallantry award, Nishan-e-Haider.

Corps commander Peshawar, along with the inspector general Frontier Corps (North) and commander Northern Areas, laid floral wreath at the mausoleum of Shaheed. A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan army presented guard of honour. The ceremony was also attended by people from all walks of life.

POWER BREAKDOWN: a prolonged nine hours power breakdown pushed the local consumers into severe hardships, here on Friday.

The power supply was suspended in the middle of night and continued for nine long hours. When contacted, the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) official said that a fault was developed in Shahmansoor Town’s main supply line, which was rectified later.

Published in Dawn, July 6th, 2024