ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued an advisory warning about the risk of floods and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in several regions of Pakistan. The advisory covered Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit Baltistan (GB), Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted anticipated rainfall in the next 48 to 72 hours.
The advisory specifically highlighted the possibility of flooding in the tributaries of the Kabul River and Hill Torrent of Dera Ghazi Khan Division. The convergence of flows at Taunsa, Panjand, and Guddu Barrages has the potential for reaching high flood levels on 30th July. Additionally, high flood levels are expected at Sukkur Barrage on 31st July.
Additionally, an increase in river and stream flows in Gilgit Baltistan (GB) and the occurrence of glacial lake outbursts in mountain valleys were also anticipated.
In response to the advisory, the NDMA instructed relevant departments to take preventive measures. These measures include informing the public in advance about the potential dangers. It also mentions raising awareness about safety measures, and closely monitoring traffic towards sensitive areas. Emergency response machinery should be kept ready to deal with any emergency situations that may arise.
Moreover, concerned departments should also plan for the relocation of people residing in low-lying areas. It is to ensure their safety during the expected floods and GLOF events.
heavy rains have resulted in the loss of 173 lives and caused injuries to 260 people across the country
Since June, heavy rains have led to the tragic loss of 173 lives and left 260 people injured across Pakistan, as reported by NDMA.
Among the deceased, 69 were men, 32 were women, and 72 were children. Punjab has been the hardest-hit province, with 67 fatalities, followed by 47 deaths in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 10 in Balochistan. In addition, 21 lives were claimed in Sindh, 12 in Azad Kashmir, and five in Gilgit Baltistan. The federal capital, Islamabad, also reported 11 fatalities due to monsoon rain-related incidents.
The heavy rainfall has resulted in injuries to 260 individuals, with Punjab witnessing the majority of cases at 158. Among the injured, 110 were men, 76 were women, and 74 were children.
Moreover, the destructive rains have caused damage to 1,485 houses throughout the country. Additionally, flash floods have swept away 475 cattle heads, further exacerbating the impact of the natural disasters.
