PM directs preparations for potential floods in Rivers Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the relevant authorities to ensure comprehensive preparations for potential floods in the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers.

The PM emphasized the importance of prompt and secure evacuations while raising awareness among residents in the susceptible areas.

The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Rangers and Rescue 1122 personnel in successfully rescuing and assisting individuals stranded in floodwaters in Shakargarh. He acknowledged their heroic actions, which saved numerous lives, including women and children. "I join the entire nation in paying tribute to these dedicated personnel," he stated.

These directives come in response to a surge of 70,000 cusecs of water entering Pakistan's territory from occupied Kashmir, causing damage to crops and extensive flooding in the border village of Jalala. As a result, many villagers, primarily engaged in rice cultivation, found themselves stranded.

However, the local administration swiftly launched a rescue operation and safely evacuated approximately 300 individuals, with a focus on women and children.

In addition, water released by India into the River Ravi is expected to reach the Shahdara area of Lahore within the next 24 hours. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reported that India had discharged 185,000 cusecs of water into the river on Sunday.

Accordingly, the administration and relevant departments in vulnerable areas have been urged to enhance preparedness.

Last year, India released 173,000 cusecs of water into the River Ravi, which, along with the Sutlej and Beas, falls under the purview of the Indus Waters Treaty signed in 1960. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) stated that the River Chenab is experiencing a medium-level flood at Marala and low-level floods at Khanki and Qadirabad. Relief camps have been established, and constant monitoring is being conducted in flood-prone areas along the Chenab and Ravi rivers.