ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Tuesday issued a fresh weather alert warning of more monsoon rains across upper and central parts of the country until August 8, with a heightened risk of flooding in parts of Punjab, particularly along the River Sutlej.
In its advisory, the NDMA said a sharp rise in water flow was recorded at Ganda Singh Wala, downstream of Ferozepur, where the discharge surged from 28,657 to 33,653 cusecs within one hour on August 5.
The authority warned that further heavy rainfall, expected between August 5 and 7, could exacerbate river flows in both the Sutlej and Beas rivers.
The agency also flagged concern over upstream water levels, stating that India’s Bhakra Dam is currently 55 percent full, while Pong Dam stands at 56 percent capacity.
Any additional water releases from these reservoirs may increase pressure downstream, potentially leading to low-level flooding near Ganda Singh Wala during the week.
The NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) highlighted that active monsoon currents and a prevailing westerly trough over the northern areas were contributing to scattered heavy to very heavy rainfall, further increasing hydrological stress in vulnerable regions.
The authority has directed local administrations to remain on high alert, prepare for emergency response and drainage operations, and ensure readiness for possible evacuations.
All relevant agencies have been advised to maintain communication with the NDMA and monitor real-time updates.
The public has been urged to avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas and to stay away from fast-flowing streams, submerged roads, and weak bridges.
Urban flooding risk
Separately, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has forecast urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala, owing to expected intense rainfall on August 6 and 7.
A public alert has been issued, and emergency teams in the provincial capital have been placed on high alert.
“The risk of urban flooding in Lahore is particularly serious,” the PDMA said in a statement, urging all departments to remain vigilant and implement precautionary measures.
Rising human toll
Since the start of the monsoon season on June 26, at least 302 people have died, and 727 others have been injured in rain-related incidents across Pakistan, the NDMA stated in its situation report on Monday.
The eastern province of Punjab remains the worst-affected, with 163 fatalities and 579 injuries. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, at least 71 people have died, while 86 have been injured.
Authorities have warned of continued heavy rainfall across the upper and central parts of the country through August 10, and have directed provincial governments to step up relief efforts, monitor flood-prone zones, and ensure the deployment of emergency services.
