PDMA issues Punjab flood alert

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood warning for several parts of Punjab as a

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood warning for several parts of Punjab as a fresh spell of monsoon rains, combined with an approaching westerly weather system, is expected to increase water levels in the province’s major rivers from July 20 to 24.

According to the latest advisory, rainfall in the upper catchment areas is likely to cause a significant rise in river flows, raising the risk of flooding in several districts. Authorities have warned that conditions may worsen over the coming days, prompting disaster management agencies to activate emergency preparedness measures.

The PDMA said low to medium-level flooding could develop within the next 24 hours in the Chenab River at Marala and the Ravi River at Jassar. Between July 20 and 24, water levels are expected to rise further, with high flooding anticipated in the Chenab at Marala and in the Jhelum River upstream of Mangla.

The advisory also warned of increased water flows in the Kabul River and its tributaries, as well as several seasonal streams connected to the Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi river systems. These include Dora, Dotta, Dowara, Bhimber, Halsi, Aik, Palkhu, Bein, Basanter, Deg, and Sakki nullahs.

Authorities have also expressed concern over the possibility of flash floods in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan. Urban flooding is expected in several cities, including Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Khushab, Sialkot, Gujrat, Narowal, Lahore, Okara, Sahiwal, Bahawalnagar, and Faisalabad if heavy rainfall continues.

In response to the forecast, the PDMA has placed all district administrations and emergency response agencies on high alert. Commissioners, deputy commissioners, Rescue 1122 teams, WASA officials, and departments responsible for irrigation, local government, agriculture, health, transport, forests, and livestock have been directed to remain fully prepared.

PDMA Director General Umar Abbas Mehla instructed local administrations to complete all precautionary measures in line with the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Emergency control rooms have been ordered to operate around the clock, while Rescue 1122 teams have been directed to remain ready for immediate response. Authorities have also been asked to ensure sufficient fuel supplies and equipment for rescue and relief operations.

District administrations have been instructed to improve coordination with relevant departments, clear drainage systems, position heavy machinery in vulnerable areas, issue timely public safety warnings, and make evacuation arrangements wherever necessary. Relief camps equipped with food, clean drinking water, and other essential facilities are also being prepared for residents who may be affected.