PDMA issues flood alert in Punjab

LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has issued a warning regarding the possibility of heavy flooding in four rivers – Jhelum, Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab – during the timespan of July 8 to 10.

PDMA Director General Imran Qureshi has directed deputy commissioners and other officials to personally supervise drainage teams in the field. “All institutions should keep arrangements in place and be prepared for the emergency situations,” he said.

Earlier, the authority forecasted the possibility of floods in the hilly areas of Dera Ghazi Khan Division from July 6 to 8.

The authority also warned about the risk of landslides in Murree and urban flooding in low-lying regions of Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala until July 7.

DG Qureshi directed the district administrations, Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), municipal committees, and other relevant institutions, including the irrigation department, to keep their machinery and staff on standby at all times.

He urged the authorities to relocate individuals residing in settlements near rivers to secure locations.

“It is the responsibility of District Emergency Operation Centres and other relevant institutions to promptly communicate updates regarding the situation and prevailing weather,” he added.