PMDA issues flood warning as water rises in major rivers
Low-level flooding reported
According to the latest update from PDMA Punjab, low-level flooding is being recorded at Tarbela, Kalabagh, Taunsa and Chashma along the Indus River.
Low-level flooding has also been reported in several streams and drains near Shakargarh. These include Basantar, Nala Aik and Nala Bein.
The situation has raised concerns among authorities, although water flows in most other major rivers of Punjab remain within normal levels.
Water levels in major rivers
Officials said water flow in the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi and Sutlej rivers is currently normal.
The flow of water in the rivers across Punjab is also generally within normal limits. However, the situation along the Indus River requires continued monitoring because low-level flooding has been reported at several important locations.
The latest Punjab flood warning does not indicate widespread flooding across the province at this stage. However, authorities are keeping a close watch on river conditions.
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According to PDMA, Tarbela Dam is currently 100 percent full, while Mangla Dam is 68 percent full.
The high storage levels at the dams are also being closely monitored as weather and water conditions can change quickly during the monsoon season.
Public urged to stay away from rivers
PDMA Punjab has advised citizens to remain careful in view of the developing flood situation Pakistan is facing in some areas.
People have particularly been asked to avoid recreational activities near rivers, canals, streams and drains.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa urged citizens not to visit water channels for picnics or other recreational activities during the current conditions.
He also asked parents and guardians to pay special attention to children.
Children should not be allowed to enter rivers, streams or drains under any circumstances, officials warned.
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Why the warning matters
Even when flooding remains at a low level, water conditions can change rapidly after heavy rainfall or an increase in upstream water flows.
For this reason, authorities are continuing to monitor the Punjab flood warning and river levels at different locations.
The current flood situation Pakistan authorities are monitoring is mainly concentrated around the Indus and some smaller water channels, while several other major rivers remain at normal levels.
