LAHORE, Aug 12 (Alliance News): The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab on Tuesday warned of potential flooding in major rivers due to ongoing rains in the upper parts of the country and an expected water release from India in the coming days.
“There is a fear of India releasing water into the Sutlej River in two days. There has been an unusual increase in water levels of Indian dams,” a PDMA spokesperson said.
According to PDMA, India’s Bhakra, Pong, and Thein dams have reached 61%, 76%, and 64% of their respective capacities.
A medium-to-high flood warning has been issued for the Chenab River, with PDMA Director General stating that the situation in rivers and dams is being monitored round-the-clock.
Officials also cautioned that water flow in the Sutlej could increase further. The alert comes as Punjab braces for its seventh spell of monsoon rains from August 13, which could raise water levels in the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, as well as their tributaries.
Commissioners, deputy commissioners, and all relevant departments have been placed on high alert.
The recent monsoon spell has already wreaked havoc nationwide, causing over 300 fatalities, widespread flooding, and significant infrastructure damage.
Gilgit-Baltistan, a popular tourist region, was also hit by flash floods and landslides, leaving at least 10 dead and four injured, according to Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan.
