LAHORE (Dunya News) – The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has said water flows in most rivers across the province remain normal, although low-level flooding continues at parts of the Indus River and several streams, while authorities have warned of urban flooding and established flood relief camps in vulnerable areas.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, water levels in the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi and Sutlej rivers remain within the normal range, while water conditions in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan are also stable.
The spokesperson said low-level flooding persists at Kalabagh and Chashma on the Indus River. Water flow at Kalabagh has been recorded at 340,000 cusecs, while 290,000 cusecs has been recorded at Chashma.
The PDMA also reported low-level flooding in Nallah Deg Kangra, Nallah Basantar and the Bain stream in Shakargarh in Narowal district. Water flow in Nallah Deg Kangra has reached 13,000 cusecs.
The authority said the fourth spell of monsoon rains is expected to continue until August 5, adding that forecast rainfall in upper catchment areas could increase water flows in the eastern rivers and adjoining streams.
Director General PDMA Saif Anwar Jappa warned that Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Multan remain at risk of urban flooding, while Murree, Galliyat and other hilly areas could face landslides due to continued rainfall.
He directed residents living along riverbanks and in riverbeds to move to safer locations immediately, adding that the Punjab government has established flood relief camps in affected areas where shelter, food, medical assistance and other essential services will be provided.
The DG PDMA also urged the public to take precautionary measures in view of the weather and flood situation, avoid unnecessary travel and recreational activities near rivers, canals and streams, and ensure that children are not allowed to bathe in floodwaters.