LAHORE (Dunya News) – The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has reported low-level flooding at Kalabagh on the Indus River and at Khanki on the Chenab River, while water flows in most other rivers across Punjab remain within normal limits.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, water inflow at Kalabagh stands at 269,000 cusecs, with an outflow of 262,000 cusecs. At Khanki on the Chenab River, inflow has been recorded at 113,000 cusecs, while outflow is 106,000 cusecs.
The authority said water levels remain normal at Marala, Trimmu, Panjnad and Qadirabad on the Chenab River. Flows are also normal at Jassar, Shahdara, Sidhnai and Balloki on the Ravi River, as well as at Ganda Singh Wala, Sulemanki and Head Islam on the Sutlej River. Water levels at Tarbela, Taunsa and Chashma on the Indus River, along with the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, are also within the normal range.
The PDMA has warned that water levels in Punjab's rivers could rise by July 24. Flood warnings have also been issued for streams linked to the Ravi and Chenab rivers, including Basantar, Deg, Aik, Palkhu, Bhimber, Halsi and Dora. A flash flood alert has also been issued for the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan.
Authorities have further cautioned about the possibility of urban flooding in the divisions of Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Sargodha, Okara, Sahiwal, Bahawalnagar and Rawalpindi.
PDMA Director General Umar Abbas has directed residents living in riverbeds to move immediately to safer locations. He said the Punjab government has established flood relief camps in vulnerable areas, where essential facilities and medicines will be made available.
He also urged the public to take precautionary measures in view of the weather and flood situation, avoid recreational activities near rivers, canals and streams, and ensure that children are kept away from bathing in flowing water.