MULTAN - The first spell of monsoon rains is likely to begin in Multan and adjoining areas from Thursday (today), says a weather forecast issued by the local metrological department. It is expected that the rains will continue for two next days. On the other hand the monsoon rains in upper and central areas of the country have started as a result of which water level in rivers and reservoirs have started increasing. Sources disclosed that the government has issued directive to all concerned departments to carry out flood monitoring on day and night basis and keep the masses aware of fresh flood situation. Although the rains have started, the statistics of irrigation department show that the water arrival at Head Marrala has declined by 13000 cusec. However, the concerned departments still insist that the flood threat looms on the head, saying a little increase in monsoon rains can generate a flood.