The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high flood alert after water levels in the Sutlej River at Ferozepur Below rose to an extremely dangerous level on Thursday.
According to the Pakistan Commission for Indus Water (PCTW), the flood situation recorded at 1800 hours is expected to significantly impact downstream districts, including Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Vehari, Lodhran, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Muzaffargarh.
Strict Instructions to District Administrations
The PDMA has directed divisional and district administrations to take immediate preventive and relief measures to protect lives, livestock, and property. Key directives include:
- 24/7 staffing at District Emergency Operation Centers (DEOCs).
- Coordination with PDMA, Rescue 1122, and all relevant departments for unified response.
- Activation of flood monitoring and early warning systems.
- Public awareness campaigns for safety measures and evacuation plans.
- Deployment of heavy machinery at vulnerable chokepoints.
- Strengthening of embankments and clearing of water channels.
- Establishment of relief and medical camps with electricity, food, drinking water, and toilets.
- Stockpiling essential food, medicines, and anti-snake venom supplies.
- Relocation of livestock to higher ground with veterinary care.
Emergency Preparedness
Rescue 1122 has been placed on high alert with dedicated search and rescue teams along with necessary equipment. Transport facilities are being arranged to evacuate people from flood-prone villages.
The PDMA emphasized that situation reports (SITREPs) must be generated regularly, and all data will be used for post-flood analysis to improve future disaster management.
Read More: Punjab on Red Alert as Qadirabad Headworks Faces Extreme Flood
High Risk for Downstream Districts
Authorities have urged citizens in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, follow official evacuation orders, and avoid unnecessary movement near riverbanks.
