The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood alert for rivers and waterways across Punjab, as the fifth and most intense monsoon spell begins today and is expected to continue until July 31, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Monday.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, monsoon showers will affect most districts of Punjab from this evening, with forecasts predicting continued rainfall through the end of the month.
Areas expected to receive significant downpours include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Attock, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Gujrat, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Narowal, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, Sargodha, Mianwali, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Multan.
PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned that rain in the upper regions of the rivers could lead to an abnormal rise in water levels, particularly in the Ravi, Jhelum, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers.
The Indus River at Taunsa is already experiencing a medium-level flood, with water flow recorded at 410,000 cusecs. Meanwhile, low-level flooding is reported at the Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma points of the Indus.
DG Kathia instructed all deputy commissioners to remain on the ground and enforce Section 144 strictly around rivers, streams, and nullahs to ensure public safety. He also directed increased patrolling in flood-prone areas.
Furthermore, he urged WASA, rescue teams, and district administrations to stay alert and ensure the rapid drainage of water from low-lying areas.
All chokepoints must be staffed with proper machinery and personnel, and disposal stations must remain fully functional with standby generators in place.
DG PDMA emphasised that, under clear directives from the Punjab Chief Minister, private housing societies are responsible for eliminating water ponding. Failure to ensure adequate drainage will result in strict action against them.
In case of emergencies, citizens are advised to call PDMA’s helpline at 1129.
NDMA advises caution in northern regions
A fresh spell of intense monsoon rains is forecast to hit northern Pakistan from July 28 to 31, posing risks of urban flooding, glacial surges and landslides across Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Chitral Valley, according to the latest advisory issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
In anticipation of these weather-driven hazards, NDMA has strongly advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential travel and strictly follow official guidance. For real-time alerts and safety protocols, citizens are encouraged to use the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile app and monitor updates from NDMA and local administration channels.
NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has issued flood alerts for several areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK, urging timely preparedness amid worsening weather conditions.
According to NEOC, rain is expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and Shigar areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, as well as in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh in AJK during the forecast period. These rains may lead to flooding, while heavy showers in hilly regions may also trigger landslides.
In Chitral Valley, Buni and Reshun areas, rainfall combined with melting glaciers may result rise in the water flow of River Chitral. Urban flooding is also likely in Muzaffarabad and Bagh due to heavy downpours.
NDMA has directed all relevant departments and agencies to take proactive measures, ensure the readiness of personnel, machinery, and rescue teams, and remain vigilant to deal with any emergency situation.
Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and local administrations have been instructed