Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert in view of the increase in water flow in rivers in different parts of the country and the possible flood situation, directing citizens and relevant institutions to take precautionary measures. According to the agency, the water level in several major rivers is likely to rise further by August 4, which may increase the risk of flooding in some low-lying areas.
According to the latest report of the NDMA, a high-level flood has been recorded at the Head Gogi location in the Lehri River, while the moderate flood situation persists in the Pulkho drain near Wazirabad. In addition, there is a low level of flood at the Kalabagh, Chashma, Guddu and Sukkur Barrage of the Indus River, while a high water level has also been recorded at the Head Nari location in the Nari River.
Due to the overflow of the Nala Dik in the Muridke Tehsil of Sheikhupura District of Punjab, water entered several settlements, after which the district administration, rescue agencies and other relevant departments have intensified relief operations. Along with shifting the affected people to safer places, provision of food, clean water and medical facilities is also ongoing.
To assess the situation, Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Water Resources Rana Ahmed Atiq Anwar, Chairman NDMA Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique, Chairman PDMA Punjab and Commissioner Lahore visited the affected areas and flood relief camps. The delegation reviewed the relief activities, while Deputy Commissioner Sheikhupura gave a detailed briefing on the damages and ongoing measures.
The authorities directed the relevant institutions to continue the supply of food, clean water, medicines, medical facilities and other basic necessities without interruption until the complete recovery of the affected families. They also emphasised that all institutions should work in coordination in the relief activities so that timely facilities can be provided to the victims.
The NDMA has appealed to the citizens to avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams and flood passages, follow the instructions issued by the district administration and obtain information related to weather and floods only from authentic sources. According to experts, timely precautions, effective planning, and public cooperation can play an important role in reducing potential losses.