The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high alert for all districts after forecasts warned of heavy rainfall, cloudbursts, and potential flash floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern Punjab, and other regions of the country.
According to PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia, the seventh spell of the monsoon season is expected to be more intense, bringing strong downpours to several districts within the next 24 hours. He said the provincial emergency control room is in constant coordination with district-level emergency centres to closely track developments.
All commissioners and deputy commissioners in Punjab have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock surveillance of rivers, streams, and flood-prone areas. Rescue teams are to be stationed in advance at vulnerable sites, with lifeboats, life jackets, and other essential equipment kept ready. Civil defence, health departments, and related agencies have also been directed to remain fully mobilised.
Kathia emphasised that hospitals must be equipped with adequate staff, medicines, and drainage systems to handle any emergency situation. He further instructed that sufficient stocks of fuel should be reserved to ensure uninterrupted rescue operations.
Local administrations have been told to use mosque loudspeakers and other channels to warn residents, urging them to relocate to safer areas where necessary and cooperate with authorities. “The public is advised to strictly follow PDMA guidelines and adopt all precautionary measures to stay safe,” the DG stated.