Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flood alert: NDMA warns of high-level flooding in Budhni Nullah after water discharge at Darmangi surged to 16,142 cusecs on Tuesday.
The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) listed Warsak Road, Darmangi, and Regi Lalma as high-risk zones. Authorities urged residents to follow safety guidelines and move to safer areas. Rescue teams are on standby to respond quickly.
Rising Toll: Punjab and Nationwide Impact
Flood devastation is spreading beyond Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed 41 deaths and more than 2.4 million people affected in just 10 days.
Nationwide, 863 lives have been lost since June 26, when the monsoon began. The disaster has revived memories of the 2022 floods, which killed 1,700 people and caused $35 billion in damage.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast and Flash Flood Risks
The Pakistan Meteorological Department predicted heavy to very heavy rains across key districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Chitral, Swat, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Peshawar, and D.I. Khan.
Experts warn that torrential rains could trigger flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding, especially in low-lying areas. In addition, strong winds and lightning may damage weak structures, power lines, and vehicles.
Farmers have been advised to adjust their agricultural plans. Meanwhile, citizens and tourists are urged to avoid travel in high-risk zones until conditions improve.
Rivers Under Pressure in Punjab
The NDMA highlighted rising river flows in Punjab. The Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers recorded high discharges, posing risks to downstream cities, including Multan.
Punjab PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said a flood wave from the Chenab could reach Multan within hours. He described the situation as “critical.” Already, 3,200 villages have been affected, while one million people have been rescued.
Power Supply Disruptions in Flood-Hit Areas
Floodwaters have also damaged 48 grid stations and 455 feeders in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The Power Division confirmed that 170 feeders are fully restored and 256 are temporarily reconnected. Officials assured that restoring power in flood-hit areas is the government’s top priority.
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