The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Monday issued an alert for potential flooding in the Ravi amidst rising inflows from India’s Madhopur Headworks, a day after New Delhi warned Islamabad of releasing waters into Sutlej and Chenab.
In its advisory, the NDMA noted that heavy rainfall was forecast across Indian states, including Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which could swell rivers and streams flowing into Pakistan. It said the National Emergency Operations Center is monitoring the situation around the clock.
According to the forecasts, the Ravi River at Jastar may face high flood levels within the next 48 hours, with flows ranging between 80,000 and 125,000 cusecs. Similarly, Chenab’s upper catchment is also expected to see water levels rise, with the discharge at Marala expected to climb to between 150,000 and 200,000 cusecs.
The situation at the Sutlej is also alarming, with officials warning the river’s flow could rise to 220,000 cusecs at Kasur. The NDMA also noted that India’s Thein Dam is close to reaching its storage capacity, increasing the risk of further releases.
Last week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the NDMA to hold daily monsoon review meetings. The authority said it is providing support to provincial and local departments to strengthen preparations and relief efforts.
Timely evacuation
In light of the advisory, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has issued strict directives to ensure the timely evacuation of people living in areas around the rivers to safe places.
Earlier, in an X post, the Climate Change Ministry warned of heavy rains in Gujranwala, Gujrat and Lahore divisions over the next 48 hours, with the potential for urban flooding. It urged citizens to stay alert, follow safety precautions, and remain prepared during the period.
According to a statement, the chief minister emphasized that all available resources must be utilized. She instructed residents of riverside and low-lying areas be immediately relocated to safe places, along with the prompt shifting of livestock from rural flood-hit regions. She directed authorities to ensure continuous and vigilant monitoring of the flood situation in Sutlej and other rivers.
Nawaz also ordered comprehensive arrangements for the accommodation, food, and medical treatment of flood victims, as well as the provision of snakebite vaccines in affected areas. She specifically directed the district administration, Rescue 1122, and all relevant departments in Kasur, Pakpattan, Taunsa Sharif, and other flood-prone districts to remain on high alert and perform their duties with utmost responsibility. She warned that any negligence would not be tolerated.