New monsoon spell to hit Pakistan in 24 hours, flood alert issued

ISLAMABAD: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has forecast the ninth spell of monsoon in the 24 to 48 hours with increased rains in the upper regions of the country.

Heavy rains have been reported from Narowal, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Lahore in the last 24 hours, according to NDMA.

Under this system, the NDMA stated, rainfall is also likely in southern regions of the country, including South Punjab and Sindh, from September 6 onward.

The coastal districts of Sindh, such as Badin, Sujawal, and Tharparkar, are also likely to receive heavy rainfall, the NDMA stated.

Exceedingly high rainfall and enhanced river inflows have already led to flooding in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The NDMA stated that from September 4 to 5, waters from the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers are expected to meet at Panjnad, which can create serious flood conditions there.

The NDMA has reportedly identified vulnerable areas, and respective Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) have been informed.

Citizens of sensitive areas have been directed to comply with official directions, remain safe, and refrain from unwanted travel.

The NDMA revealed that approximately 5,700 tons of relief items have been distributed to flood-affected families, with government agencies, welfare organizations, and the Pakistan Army acting together on relief efforts.

Flood warning for the Chenab River

In the meantime, the NDMA has warned of the impending arrival of high flood peaks in the Chenab River.

“Ongoing rains in the upper catchments of the river, combined with the release of water from dams in Indian held, resulted in another wave of flood propagating from Marala toward Khanki and threatening to inundate surrounding areas.

Water inflow at Marala Headworks reached 548,237 cusecs. The flood wave will hit Khanki at 8 pm today and Qadirabad at 3 am, with flows expected to reach as high as 550,000 cusecs, the NDMA said.

The floodwaters are expected to hit Trimmu Headworks at 7am on September 8 with a flow of 330,000 cusecs, Panjnad on September 11 at 8 pm with 264,000 cusecs, and Guddu Barrage on September 13 at 8 pm with 217,000 cusecs.

Precautionary and relief measures have been directed to be taken on an immediate basis by the district and local governments.

Low-lying and riverine habitations have been put on high alert and asked to relocate to safer places.

The NDMA asked people of Khanki, Qadirabad, Trimmu, Panjnad, and Guddu to be on alert.

The authority added that it is in constant contact with civil and military organs to ensure evacuation in time.

The NDMA also asked vulnerable groups to assist authorities during evacuations and adhere to instructions to return home from relief camps strictly.

Citizens were informed to follow local administration directives, call rescue squads in case of emergencies, avoid non-essential travel, have emergency kits (water, food, medicines) prepared, and safeguard vital documents.