Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning of severe high flooding in the Indus River and its surrounding areas in the coming days. According to the agency, water relays at various barrages can reach 1.2 million cusecs during September 3 to 13, which will create a dangerous situation.
According to the NDMA’s estimates, the flow from Panjnad Headworks will be 9 to 9.5 million cusecs during September 3 and 4, while relays of 8 to 1.1 million cusecs are expected at Guddu Barrage during September 5 and 6. Similarly, the flow intensity is likely to reach very high levels at Sukkur Barrage on September 6 and 7 and at Kotri Barrage on September 8 and 9.
According to experts, if the dam is broken and the water is diverted, the flow will decrease somewhat, but agricultural lands, villages, and low-lying areas may still be severely affected. According to environmentalist Dr. Farooq Shah:
“The current situation is reminiscent of the 2010 floods. If protective measures are not taken immediately, the economy may suffer major losses, especially agricultural commodities and rural infrastructure are at risk.”
The NDMA has appealed to citizens to immediately move to safer places, keep emergency kits ready, and follow the instructions of the local administration. The agency has also directed the use of its app Disaster Alert so that the public gets timely guidance.
