NDMA issues nationwide alert over possible floods, landslides

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued alerts for possible flash floods, urban flooding and landslides across several parts of the country from July 17 to 24 due to heavy rainfall.

The NDMA warned of potential flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and northeastern Balochistan, with risks expected in local streams, hill torrents, rivers and mountainous areas.

The authority said the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) is continuously monitoring the situation, assessing potential risks and ensuring timely communication with relevant departments.

In Punjab, urban flooding risks have been predicted in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad and Sheikhupura due to heavy downpours.

The NDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from storm drains, flooded roads, riverbanks and vulnerable mountainous areas.

The authority has directed relevant departments to keep emergency machinery and rescue teams on standby to deal with any emergency. The public has also been advised to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App for verified updates and safety guidelines.

Emergency alerts for Rawalpindi

Separately, heavy rainfall has been predicted for Rawalpindi and adjoining areas, prompting authorities to impose a rain emergency following an advisory issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), according to Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) officials.

WASA said all operational teams have been placed on high alert, while machinery will be deployed at Gawalmandi and Katarian during rainfall to ensure smooth drainage and respond promptly to any emergency.

The authorities have also banned the dumping of construction material, debris and garbage into Nullah Lai, warning that strict action will be taken against violators.

Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi district administration has issued a public helpline at the Gawalmandi point to facilitate emergency response during the expected spell of heavy rain.

The administration has also prohibited bathing in rivers and streams, warning that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the restriction.