As the monsoon season looms, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority of Punjab is intensifying its preparations to mitigate the anticipated impact of increased rainfall.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has highlighted projections indicating a 35% rise in rainfall compared to typical years, heightening concerns about potential urban flooding.
Kathia stressed the urgency of completing all necessary measures before the monsoon’s onset to safeguard communities and infrastructure. “The forecast predicts unusually high rainfall volumes, necessitating comprehensive preparations,” he emphasized.
In response to the heightened risk, PDMA has escalated efforts to clear rivers and canals to ensure unimpeded water flow and minimize flood risks. “Our teams are tirelessly removing obstructions and enhancing drainage systems,” Kathia noted.
Meanwhile, Dr. Babar, the director of weather forecasting, discussed with Samaa TV that monsoon rains have already commenced in Sindh, notably in Karachi, with monsoon winds expected to progress across the country.
He warned of heavy rains anticipated in various regions within the next 24 hours and projected above-average rainfall for July and August. This raises concerns about potential river and canal flooding, as well as urban flooding particularly in northeastern and southeastern parts of Pakistan.
Dr. Babar underscored the necessity for proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of heavy rainfall and potential flooding in canals and nullahs.
“There will be substantial rainfall across Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, KP, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan,” Dr. Babar cautioned, emphasizing the imperative of readiness to address the challenges posed by the upcoming monsoon season.
