The National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) issued a warning on Monday, urging authorities to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures due to the looming threat of heavy monsoon rains, floods, and urban flooding in various parts of the country. According to the NEOC’s latest alert, Lahore, Sialkot, and Narowal are expected to experience further torrential downpours, which could result in moderate to high levels of flooding in rivers such as Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, and the connected canals. The risk of urban flooding has been identified in Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, and Gujranwala, while there is a concern for landslides in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Gilgit Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.

 The forecast predicts moderate to heavy rainfall in Islamabad, Bannu, DI Khan, Swat, Balakot, Sibbi, Zhob, Qila Saifullah, Khuzdar, Barkhan, Kalat, Naseerabad, and Lasbela. Furthermore, the NEOC has also anticipated rainfall in different areas of Sindh, including Karachi, Tharparkar, Sukkur, Larkana, Hyderabad, Badin, and Shaheed Benazirabad. In addition to issuing the warning, the NEOC has directed continuous monitoring at Marala Headworks until July 20.

 Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported a moderate flood at Marala on the Chenab River. Similarly, a moderate flood was recorded in Shakargarh, while low-level flooding was reported at Khanki and Qadirabad. The PDMA assured that the water flow in other rivers, including the Ravi, is currently normal. They are closely monitoring the water flow in all rivers, barrages, dams, and canals. The entire situation in Punjab is being monitored from the provincial control room, ensuring swift responses and coordinated efforts to address any emerging challenges. As the monsoon season continues, authorities and citizens are advised to remain alert, follow safety instructions, and take necessary precautions to ensure their well-being and minimize the impact of potential flooding and other weather-related risks.

 On the other hand, India has released 233,000 cusecs of water into the Chenab River following the Ravi River. The water level at the Head Khanki is steadily rising, with an inflow of 193,876 cusecs and an outflow of 160,890 cusecs recorded. A moderate flood situation is observed at the Head Marala. In Gujranwala, the Chenab River is experiencing a moderate level of flooding at the Head Khankii, leading to instructions for caution being issued to residents of 50 villages located adjacent to the river. At the Head Qadirabad, the inflow was recorded at 194,000 cusecs, with an outflow of 180,000 cusecs.

 Simultaneously, the flow of the Ravi River is swift, resulting in land erosion at various locations, posing a threat to multiple villages and hundreds of acres of agricultural land. Officials report that the Rescue 1122 teams are actively engaged in rescue operations. A total of 301 individuals, including children and women, have been successfully rescued from areas near the river. Furthermore, 60 farmers who were trapped in the water near Chak Jalandhar have also been rescued. Additionally, 190 individuals have been evacuated from Chandianwali and Pir Kandiala.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-INP