ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flood alert for several regions of the country, warning of possible flooding between September 1 and 3 due to forecasted heavy rains.
The expected rainfall during this period could cause a vital rise in the water levels of eastern rivers. The authority mentioned that the Sutlej River is already witnessing an extraordinary flow of 253,068 cusecs, and with further rains in the upper catchment areas along with releases from upstream dams, an additional inflow of around 300,000 cusecs is anticipated.
In this regard, the Ravi River at Jassar currently holds a normal flow of 60,094 cusecs. However, due to potential rainfall and releases from the Thien Dam, the flow at Jassar is projected to surge up to 150,000 cusecs.
NDMA also cautioned that the tributaries connected to the Ravi River, including Bein, Basantar, and Dek, could experience flooding following heavy rainfall in the upper regions.
Similarly, at Marala, the Chenab River is currently flowing at 94,728 cusecs at a lower level. Still, with forecasted rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir and discharges from upstream dams such as Salal, Baglihar, and Dul Hasti, a sharp increase in water flow is expected.
Furthermore, the alert further stated that low-lying and riverbank areas are at risk of being inundated. Breaches in protective embankments, as well as damage to crops and settlements, are possible.
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The NDMA reasserted its commitment to ensuring public safety and minimizing risks through coordinated efforts with all relevant stakeholders.
