PDMA Issues Province-Wide Alert
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high alert ahead of the 10th spell of monsoon rains in the province.
According to the authority, the spell is expected between 6 and 9 September, bringing the risk of severe downpours, flash floods, and urban flooding.
All relevant government departments, including district administrations, health services, irrigation, and local government, have been instructed to remain on standby.
Districts Likely to Be Affected
The PDMA spokesperson said that widespread rains are forecast in several districts, particularly in:
Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Gujrat, and Sialkot.
Narowal, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Sahiwal, Kasur, Jhang, Sargodha, Mianwali, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Rajanpur may also experience heavy rainfall.
The authority has warned that rainfall could trigger flash floods in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan between 7 and 9 September.
In addition, rising water levels in the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers could worsen flood conditions in nearby low-lying areas.
Urban centers, including Lahore and Gujranwala, are particularly vulnerable to waterlogging in underpasses, drainage failure, and flooding of residential areas.
Flash Flood Risks and River Monitoring
Director General PDMA, Irfan Ali Kathia, emphasized the seriousness of the situation.
He noted that hill torrents in southern Punjab are especially prone to sudden surges, which can devastate villages and farmland within hours.
Rivers Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej are already flowing at higher-than-normal levels due to earlier rain spells and upstream releases from India. Any additional inflows could overwhelm embankments.
In recent years, flash floods have repeatedly hit southern districts, damaging crops and infrastructure. In 2022, monsoon floods across Pakistan displaced more than 33 million people, with Punjab among the worst-affected provinces.
Departments on Emergency Standby
The PDMA confirmed that alerts have been issued to:
Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners across Punjab.
The Health Department for medical preparedness.
The Irrigation Department for river monitoring.
The Communication and Works Department for road clearance.
Local governments and livestock departments to protect rural communities.
Authorities have been asked to ensure rescue teams, machinery, and relief camps are ready if evacuations become necessary.
Public Safety Advisory
Citizens have been urged to take precautions during the upcoming rains.
The PDMA has advised people to:
Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
Stay away from rivers, streams, and nullahs.
Move belongings to safer places if living in low-lying areas.
Follow official alerts and cooperate with rescue workers.
In case of emergency, residents are encouraged to contact the Rescue Helpline 1129, which will remain active throughout the monsoon spell.
Balancing Preparedness and Risk
Experts say the monsoon season is both a blessing and a challenge for Punjab.
While rains replenish water reservoirs and support agriculture, poor drainage and unchecked urban development heighten the risk of flooding.
With climate change intensifying weather patterns, Pakistan is witnessing heavier, more erratic monsoon rains. The World Bank estimates that by 2050, climate-related flooding could displace millions more unless adaptation measures are scaled up.
For now, authorities hope that early warnings and coordinated action will minimize losses as Punjab braces for yet another monsoon onslaught.
