Seventh spell of monsoon rains may hit most parts of Punjab

Punjab is bracing for the seventh spell of monsoon rains, with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) forecasting heavy rains from August 21 to August 23. The situation at the Indus River at Kalabagh, where inflow is already at 425,000 cusecs against an outflow of 416,000 cusecs, has reached a moderate flood level. Tarbela, Chashma, and Taunsa dams are also experiencing elevated water levels, with Tarbela at full capacity and Mangla at 72 percent capacity.

Current conditions indicate low-level flooding in Tarbela, Chashma, and Taunsa, while rivers like the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, and Sutlej remain within normal limits, as do the rivers in Dera Ghazi Khan. However, areas such as Nala Palkho in Wazirabad, Nala Basantar and Nala Ek in Narowal, and various districts including Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat, Mandi Bahauddin, Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Rahim Yar Khan face high risks of urban flooding, landslides, and flash floods in low-lying areas.

The PDMA has issued alerts to all commissioners and deputy commissioners, urging them to take preventive measures and ensuring preparedness across major cities. The authority advises citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, especially during heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds, and to stay indoors or at safe locations during thunderstorms to protect against lightning.

Additionally, the PDMA warns against residing in dilapidated buildings and advises people to keep children away from standing water, rivers, streams, drains, electric poles, and exposed wires during the flood situation. The helpline 1129 is available for emergency assistance.