Punjab on flood alert as PDMA warns of rising river levels until July 24

According to the PDMA, low-level flooding is currently being observed at Kalabagh on the Indus River and Khanki on the Chenab River, while water flows

LAHORE: The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood alert, warning that water levels in several rivers across the province are expected to rise until July 24, while urging residents to remain vigilant amid ongoing monsoon conditions.

According to the PDMA, low-level flooding is currently being observed at Kalabagh on the Indus River and Khanki on the Chenab River, while water flows at most other monitoring points remain within normal limits.

At Kalabagh, water inflow has reached 269,000 cusecs with an outflow of 262,000 cusecs. At Khanki, inflow has been recorded at 113,000 cusecs and outflow at 106,000 cusecs.

The authority reported stable river conditions at Marala, Qadirabad, Trimmu and Panjnad on the Chenab River. Normal water levels have also been recorded at Jassar, Shahdara, Sidhnai and Balloki on the Ravi River, as well as Ganda Singh Wala, Sulemanki and Head Islam on the Sutlej River. Similarly, Tarbela, Chashma and Taunsa on the Indus River, along with the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, are currently flowing within safe limits.

Despite the overall stable situation, the PDMA has warned that continued rainfall could raise river levels in the coming days. A flash flood alert has been issued for the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, while Lahore, Bahawalnagar and Rawalpindi divisions have been cautioned about the risk of urban flooding.

PDMA Director General Umar Abbas said relief camps have been established in vulnerable areas to assist affected communities. He advised the public to stay informed, follow official safety guidelines and avoid visiting rivers, canals and streams for recreational purposes during the ongoing spell of wet weather.

Moreover, Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds lashed several parts of Peshawar, while Islamabad, Jhelum and Nowshera also received rainfall, bringing temporary relief from the hot and humid weather.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), at least 12 people lost their lives and 14 others sustained injuries in rain-related incidents across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) over the past 24 hours.

The casualties include five children and a woman. The heavy rains also caused damage in several districts, including Peshawar, Khyber, Mardan, Buner, Bajaur, Lower Chitral, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Torghar and Kurram.

Authorities have reported rain-related incidents and damage in different areas as the province continues to experience unsettled weather. Rescue and relief teams remain on alert, while officials are monitoring the situation in vulnerable areas.

Residents in affected districts have been advised to remain cautious, particularly in areas prone to flash floods, landslides and other weather-related hazards.