Flood alert issued for Punjab

LAHORE: Authorities on Friday issued a flood alert for Punjab and advised citizens to brace for potential heavy rainfall in Pakistan’s most populous province.

A spokesperson for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said significant flooding was expected in the Chenab River at Marala Khanpur and Qadirabad, where water levels could reach 200,000 to 250,000 cusecs.

Moreover, the Ravi River is anticipated to have flows between 40,000 and 55,000 cusecs at Jassar and Shahdara, PDMA Director General Irfan Kathia said noting that medium-level flooding was also expected in the Nala Bein.

The PDMA and local authorities were on high alert after making all necessary arrangements with administrative units near the Chenab, Ravi, and other streams instructed to stay vigilant.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif had previously instructed officials to inform the public about potential flooding risks. The DG PDMA had advised the evacuation of residents from riverbeds and urged people to avoid unnecessary travel near rivers and streams.