ISLAMABAD: With monsoon rains intensifying across the region, authorities at Tarbela Dam have opened the dam’s spillways to manage the surge in water inflows, prompting a flood alert for villages and low-lying areas along the Indus River.
According to officials from the Tarbela Dam administration, water levels have risen significantly due to persistent rainfall, necessitating the opening of spillway gates up to 14 feet to safely discharge excess water. A formal advisory has been issued, warning the public to avoid venturing near the dam, spillways, and riverbanks for their safety.
As the Indus River (locally known as Abaseen) swells, downstream areas are now facing a medium-level flood. The water discharge from Tarbela is currently recorded at around 259,000 cusecs, a level expected to persist over the next five to six hours.
Communities residing near the river’s path downstream of Tarbela, including local residents and tourists, have been urged to exercise extreme caution. Emergency response teams and district authorities are on high alert, closely monitoring the situation as a precautionary measure against potential flooding.
Local disaster management officials have reiterated that early warnings are being communicated, and residents in vulnerable areas are advised to stay informed through official channels, prepare for possible evacuations, and follow safety protocols strictly.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to assess water levels and weather patterns as the monsoon system unfolds.
