KASUR/ISLAMABAD - Several villages in Kasur district were inundated as water level in River Sutlej is rising constantly, officials said Wednesday. Rescue teams were seen busy in shifted people residing in catchment areas of River Sutlej. The teams have so far shifted 200 people marooned in floodwater to safer places.
A Rescue-1122 spokesman told reporters that rescue teams equipped with 27 boats had been deputed at 10 locations of the flood hit areas which were shifted people to safer places. He said that water flow in River Sutlej at Ganda Singhwala was recorded 70,000 cusecs and the level was rising.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Wednesday issued an advisory alert for the provincial departments to ensure proper protective measures amid medium to high-level flood forecast in River Sutlej.
According to the NDMA, during the next 24-48 hours, a medium to high level of flood was expected in Ganda Singhwala in the area along River Sutlej, and adjoining low-lying areas may come under the influence of the possible impacts.
Moreover, it said there was a possibility of heavy rain with strong winds, and thunderstorms in different cities of the country.
There would be a risk of floods in low-lying areas and landslides in the mountainous areas, strong winds and thunderstorms can damage weak and dilapidated power poles, solar panels, billboards, tall trees or structures under construction, it said.
The safety measures included that the district administration should ensure the provision of emergency personnel and machinery including dewatering pumps in flood-prone areas, to maintain the flow of traffic, the administration should ensure a parallel traffic plan during drainage operation from underpasses and low roads, ensure the completion of stock taking by the concerned district administration.
The administration of the flood-prone areas should continue monitoring the sensitive areas, especially at the river Chenab’s Trimmu and the Ravi River’s Jassar areas until July 20th.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab should ensure timely evacuation of the residents of the low-lying areas around the Rivers Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej and its associated canals.
The Rescue services, armed forces, and NGOs active in the respective areas should be ready to ensure emergency personnel, machinery and quick response in emergency situations