The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has sounded a high flood alert across the province due to the ongoing monsoon rains, which are expected to persist until July 25. The fourth spell of monsoon rains continues to batter various districts, significantly increasing the risk of riverine flooding in several regions of Punjab.
According to PDMA officials, a high flood alert has been issued for the Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi rivers between July 21 and 23, with authorities warning of an increased water flow in the Sutlej River at Ganda Singhwala between July 22 and 24. The heavy monsoon rains have raised alarm across low-lying and river-adjacent areas, prompting authorities to initiate precautionary measures to prevent loss of life and infrastructure damage.
In light of the forecast, the PDMA has put several districts under a high flood alert, including Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Lahore, Sahiwal, and Bahawalpur. Local administrations have been asked to stay vigilant and to closely monitor the water levels as monsoon rains intensify.
The PDMA has also sent detailed warnings to deputy commissioners in Jhelum, Gujrat, Mandi Bahauddin, Sargodha, Khushab, Jhang, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Okara, and Toba Tek Singh. These districts, located in northern, central, southern, and western Punjab, are especially vulnerable during this round of monsoon rains.
The director general of PDMA has directed Rescue 1122 to remain on high alert and ensure that all necessary emergency response mechanisms are in place. As the monsoon rains continue, authorities are preparing for possible evacuations and rescue operations in case riverbanks overflow.
This high flood alert comes amid growing concerns about Pakistan’s readiness to handle climate-related emergencies, especially during prolonged and heavy monsoon rains. The PDMA has urged residents in flood-prone zones to remain cautious and to follow local advisories closely.
While monsoon rains are vital for agriculture and water reservoirs, their unpredictability continues to pose severe challenges. With rivers like Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab expected to swell, the situation remains tense. The government has advised citizens to stay informed through official channels and to avoid non-essential travel in affected regions during the ongoing high flood alert period.
