The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has expressed concerns about the possibility of floods in the region due to India releasing more than 70,000 cusecs of water into Pakistan’s River Sutlej. Local authorities have confirmed the significant discharge of water from the Harike headworks and have issued warnings about the potential for inundation in nearby areas. As a precautionary measure, the Deputy Commissioners of Kasur, Okara, Wahari, Pakpattan, and Vehari have been instructed to make necessary preparations and set up relief camps in their respective districts.
To ensure public safety, authorities are advising people to avoid areas near urban rivers and canals. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has directed provincial administrations to implement early warning systems, maintain swift response capabilities, and carry out evacuations in areas prone to flooding along the Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej rivers, and their tributaries.
Furthermore, district administrations have been instructed to develop contingency traffic plans for vulnerable urban areas and initiate de-watering operations. Officials will continue to monitor the situation until July 20 and advise residents in high-risk areas to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by relevant authorities.
