Heavy rain forecast raises new flood fears across Punjab

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of heavy rainfall over the next two days in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gujrat, Gujranwala, and Lahore divisions, with intermittent showers also expected in Peshawar, Kohat, Bannu, Sargodha, Faisalabad, and Zhob.

Rising river inflows are feared in upper catchment areas, raising the risk of fresh flooding.

At present, Guddu Barrage is experiencing a medium-level flow of 500,000 cusecs, Sukkur Barrage is at high flood levels with 571,000 cusecs, and Kotri Barrage is under medium-level flow with possible flood risk.

According to the  Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA ), water levels in the Indus, Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab rivers have returned to normal, while Panjnad is stable.

However, a medium flood persists at Ganda Singh Wala on the Sutlej, and a low flood remains at Sulaimanki and Islam Headworks. Hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan are also reported to be flowing normally.

Meanwhile, Mangla Dam has reached 95 per cent capacity and Tarbela Dam is at full capacity. Across the border, Bhakra Dam has filled to 88 per cent, Pong Dam to 94 per cent, and Thein Dam to 88 per cent.

The NDMA has directed all relevant institutions to remain on high alert and ensure preventive measures, while urging citizens to avoid crossing rivers, bridges, or submerged roads during high flows. 

Residents of flood-prone areas have also been advised to stay informed through TV and mobile alerts and use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app for timely updates.

Read: Flood loss estimates balloon

Relief efforts

The flooding in Punjab’s rivers has already caused widespread devastation. According to Relief Commissioner Punjab Nabeel Javed, more than 4.7 million people have been affected and over 4,700 villages damaged due to the severe flood situation in the Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers. Recent incidents during the floods have claimed 119 lives.

Around 2.614 million stranded residents have been relocated to safer places, while 329 relief camps and 425 medical camps have been established. In addition, 367 veterinary camps have been set up, and 2.09 million animals have been shifted to safe areas.

“On the directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab, compensation will be provided to citizens for their losses,” Javed said, confirming that a damage assessment survey is underway and payments will be made “transparently and easily.”

The PDMA noted that while water levels are receding rapidly in many flood-hit areas, the provincial administration remains on alert as per CM directives. Relief operations continue, and citizens can contact the emergency helpline 1129 for assistance.

Read more: Low flood at Kotri as Indus ebbs at Guddu

Medical response

The Punjab Health and Population Department reported that over 822,000 flood victims have been provided medical treatment, 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 serving flood-hit areas. He added that 31,000 hygiene kits have been distributed so far.

Health authorities also confirmed 164 snakebite cases during the floods, including eight in the past 24 hours, alongside treatment for diabetic patients and 343 pregnant women.

“The department is committed to ensuring uninterrupted healthcare for flood-affected communities,” Nazir said.

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