LAHORE: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh warning of heavy rainfall across Punjab over the next two days, raising fears of renewed flooding in already devastated areas.
According to the forecast, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gujrat, Gujranwala, and Lahore divisions are likely to see heavy showers, while intermittent rains are expected in Peshawar, Kohat, Bannu, Sargodha, Faisalabad, and Zhob. Rising inflows in upper catchments have heightened concerns of further river flooding.
At present, Guddu Barrage is witnessing a medium-level flow of 500,000 cusecs, Sukkur Barrage is under high flood with 571,000 cusecs, and Kotri Barrage is experiencing medium-level flow with a possible flood threat.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed that water levels in the Indus, Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab have normalized, while Panjnad remains stable. However, a medium flood continues at Ganda Singh Wala on the Sutlej, and low floods persist at Sulaimanki and Islam Headworks.
Officials also reported that Mangla Dam has reached 95 percent capacity and Tarbela Dam is completely filled. Across the border, Bhakra Dam stands at 88 percent, Pong Dam at 94 percent, and Thein Dam at 88 percent. The NDMA has directed all institutions to stay on high alert and urged citizens to avoid rivers, bridges, or submerged roads during high flows. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to stay updated through TV, mobile alerts, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app.
Relief efforts
The floods in Punjab’s rivers have already left deep devastation. Relief Commissioner Punjab Nabeel Javed confirmed that more than 4.7 million people have been affected, while over 4,700 villages have suffered damage. At least 119 lives have been lost in recent incidents.
Authorities said 2.614 million stranded residents have been shifted to safer areas. In addition, 329 relief camps, 425 medical camps, and 367 veterinary camps have been established. Around 2.09 million animals have also been relocated. Javed said on the directives of the Punjab Chief Minister, compensation will be given to citizens for their losses once damage assessment surveys are completed, with payments to be made “transparently and easily.”
The PDMA added that water levels are receding rapidly in many flood-hit areas but the provincial administration remains on alert. Citizens have been advised to contact the emergency helpline 1129 for assistance.
Medical response
The Punjab Health and Population Department reported that more than 822,000 flood victims have been treated so far, including 31,000 in the past 24 hours. Provincial Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir said 603 medical relief camps, 23 field hospitals, and 12 boat clinics are currently serving the flood-affected population. He added that 31,000 hygiene kits have also been distributed.
Health officials confirmed 164 snakebite cases during the floods, including eight in the past 24 hours, along with ongoing treatment for diabetic patients and 343 pregnant women. Nazir assured that the department is committed to providing uninterrupted healthcare services to affected families.
