President Zardari directs institutions to stay prepared for heavy rains in Sindh

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - President Asif Ali Zardari has directed all concerned institutions to remain fully prepared in view of the heavy rains expected in Sindh from Sunday night.

President Zardari directed provincial, district and municipal authorities to stay on high alert and ensure advance arrangements, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas which are most vulnerable to flooding.

He also emphasized the need for close monitoring of water levels in Hub Dam and other reservoirs to safeguard communities.

The President appealed to the residents of these areas to take precautionary measures and strictly follow government advisories for their safety.

He stressed that timely relocation to safe areas must be facilitated and that relief machinery and staff at the district and tehsil levels remain fully mobilized.

Also Read: Karachi, other Sindh districts on high alert as urban flooding risk escalates

Asif Ali Zardari further urged the media and local administrations to play an active role in raising awareness among the public so that risks are minimized and lives are protected.

Earlier, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that the provincial government is preparing for potential floods with contingency planning based on water flows of up to 800,000 cusecs.

Addressing a press conference at the Flood Monitoring Cell in Karachi on Sunday, Shah said that the ongoing monsoon rains have triggered flood-like conditions in several areas.

“A flood surge of up to 700,000 cusecs is expected at Panjnad, while 217,000 cusecs of water is anticipated to enter the Indus River from Taunsa,” he said.

He added that the peak water level at Guddu Barrage is expected on September 9, and the province is preparing accordingly.

“Many residents of the affected districts have already evacuated, and we are ensuring full relief efforts for flood victims,” he said.