Punjab Issues Flood Alert After India Releases Water

LAHORE: (Web Desk) – Provincial Disaster Management Authority issued a flood alert after India announced the release of water into the River Chenab by opening the spillway gates of the Salal Dam on Thursday.

According to reports, Indian authorities informed Pakistan that the spillway gates of the Salal Dam would remain open from Wednesday morning until May 30, raising concerns about a possible surge in water flow downstream.

Following the announcement, Punjab’s PDMA warned districts located along the River Chenab about a potential rise in water levels by two to three metres. Officials also expressed concern over increasing water flow at the Head Marala Barrage.

Authorities issued high flood alerts for Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, and Chiniot as a precautionary measure.

A PDMA spokesperson confirmed that the spillway gates would remain open daily from 9am until May 30. After receiving communication from Pakistan’s Irrigation Department, flood alerts were immediately forwarded to all concerned districts and departments.

The disaster management authority directed local administrations to keep emergency control rooms functional around the clock, while Rescue 1122 teams were instructed to remain on high alert to handle any emergency situation.

PDMA Punjab Issues Alert Ahead of Heavy Rain

PDMA Director General Umar Javed stated that all departments had been instructed to stay fully prepared in accordance with directives issued by the Punjab chief minister.

He also advised citizens to avoid visiting riverbanks during the alert period and urged the public to contact emergency helpline 1129 if assistance is required.

Additionally, district administrations were ordered to deploy heavy machinery, increase staffing, and inspect protective embankments to effectively respond to any possible flooding situation.