- Advertisement -
LAHORE, Jul 25 (APP):On the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a comprehensive monsoon fact sheet on Friday, detailing the latest status of rainfall, river water levels, and emergency measures across the province.
According to the fact sheet, monsoon rains were recorded in most districts of Punjab over the past 24 hours. The highest rainfall was recorded in Multan at 117 mm, followed by Lahore with 43 mm, Sheikhupura 37 mm, Hafizabad 15 mm, Okara 13 mm, and Sahiwal 12 mm. Rainfall was also observed in Narowal, Sialkot, Toba Tek Singh, Dera Ghazi Khan, and other areas.
The current fourth spell of monsoon rains is expected to continue until July 25, with more rain predicted in most districts — including Lahore and Rawalpindi — in the next 24 hours. Due to the continued downpours, there is a growing risk of flooding in rivers and streams across Punjab.
Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said that in accordance with the Chief Minister’s directives, alerts have been issued to district administrations and all concerned departments. In the last 12 hours, 10 people sustained injuries in incidents of roof collapse caused by heavy rains, though no loss of human life was reported during the past 24 hours.
However, the rains have taken a toll on livestock, with 121 animal deaths reported due to roof collapses and electrocution. Some fatalities were also linked to lightning strikes and drowning incidents. Financial assistance is being provided to the affected families, while losses to farmers — including damage to crops and livestock — will also be compensated.
Regarding water reserves, Mangla Dam is currently at 54% capacity, and Tarbela Dam at 79%. Indian dams are reported to be at 36% capacity. A low-level flood is ongoing in the Indus River at Kalabagh and Tarbela, while a medium-level flood situation exists at Chashma and Taunsa. The Chenab, Ravi, Jhelum, and Sutlej rivers remain at normal flow levels.
In anticipation of further flooding, the PDMA has completed its preparations. The situation is being monitored round the clock by the PDMA Control Room and District Emergency Operation Centers. There is also a high risk of urban flooding in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Sialkot.
The Punjab government has imposed a complete ban on bathing in rivers, canals, and stormwater drains. Citizens have been warned that strict legal action will be taken against violators. People are also advised to stay indoors during severe weather, avoid contact with electric poles and wires, and refrain from residing in damaged or vulnerable structures.
In case of emergencies, citizens are urged to immediately contact PDMA’s helpline at 1129.