NDMA issues flood alert for River Ravi in next 48 hours

LAHORE: The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flood alert for the Ravi River for the next 48 hours, indicating a medium level of risk.

According to hydrological data, continuous moderate to heavy rainfall in the catchment of the Ravi River and its associated tributaries has increased the inflow of water into the Thane Dam, which has reached 1,717 feet (86 per cent of its capacity).

The downstream release from Thane Dam, coupled with the increasing discharge of the tributary towards India, is likely to further increase the river flow. As a result, medium to high flows are expected in the tributaries of the Pir Panjal range, especially the tributaries originating from Ben, Basantar and Deg, during the next 24 hours.

Currently, the Ravi River at Kot Nina is discharging 64,000 cusecs and may cause low to medium flood at Jasr within 24 hours, if additional spillway releases are made with continued rain activity till August 27.

Residents of the low-lying areas of the Ravi River and its tributaries are advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel near the river banks and heed official flood warnings through TV, radio, mobile alerts and Pak NDMA Disaster Alert Mobile Application.

Local authorities may issue evacuation instructions, and people are urged to identify safe routes and secure household valuables, livestock and agricultural assets.

Communities are advised to keep emergency kits ready with food, water and medical supplies for 3 to 5 days, and strictly avoid crossing causeways, low bridges or flooded roads.

The NDMA has directed the relevant authorities and emergency services to remain on high alert to ensure timely response to any flood-related incidents.