Key points
- Water discharge level at Khwazakhela in River Swat has surged to 77,782 cusecs: PDMA
- PDMA categorises it as a “very high” flood situation due to ongoing heavy rainfall
- Local administrations have been directed to immediately identify vulnerable points
- All emergency services have been instructed to stay on high alert
ISLAMABAD: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a flood alert after water discharge levels at Khwazakhela in River Swat surged to 77,782 cusecs, categorising it as a very high flood situation due to the ongoing heavy rainfall in the area.
In an official communication addressed to the deputy commissioners of Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera, the PDMA has advised all concerned authorities to take urgent precautionary measures to prevent any loss of life, damage to infrastructure, crops, or livestock, a press release said on Friday.
Vulnerable points
The PDMA has directed local administrations to immediately identify vulnerable points and at-risk communities and put in place effective safety and mitigation measures.
It emphasised maintaining a heightened state of alert, with constant monitoring of the evolving flood situation to ensure timely response.
Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and all emergency services have been instructed to stay on high alert, particularly in low-lying and high-risk areas, the Press release said.
Communities living along the banks of River Kabul and its tributaries are being sensitised to the expected rise in water levels.
Evacuation plans
Local authorities have been advised to ensure timely evacuation of at-risk populations in flood-prone areas in accordance with existing evacuation plans, and to ensure the availability of shelter, food, and medical supplies in designated camps.
Farmers and cattle herders have been warned to move their livestock to safer locations away from low-lying riverbanks, while the general public is urged to avoid unnecessary travel or vehicle movement in vulnerable areas, according to the press release.
The PDMA also directed concerned departments to remain ready for road clearance operations in case of blockages or waterlogging, and to pre-position emergency equipment at critical locations.
The Provincial Emergency Operations Center (PEOC) at PDMA remains active 24/7 and can be reached via helpline 1700 for any assistance or guidance.
