The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has informed that the floodwater released from the Harike reservoir into the Sutlej River will soon reach Ganda Singhwala in the Kasur district within the next 24 hours. The NDMA spokesperson mentioned that the water flow from India, which is at a low flood level, is expected to reach this area within the next six hours.
The water from Harike will continue its course and reach the Sulemanki Headworks in the next thirty-six to forty-eight hours. As a result, there is a possibility of flooding in low-lying areas and villages, which may lead to the submersion of crops along the Sutlej River and overflowing of roads.
In response to this situation, Nabeel Javed, a relief official, has instructed the concerned commissioners and deputy commissioners of districts near the Sutlej River to make immediate arrangements for relief efforts. The primary focus should be on ensuring the safety of people’s lives and their property.
The relief commissioner emphasized that the relevant departments must keep the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) informed about the current situation. Additionally, the disaster response teams of Rescue 1122 should be on high alert and prepared for action.
Nabeel Javed stressed the need for having necessary machinery and equipment available for the disaster response teams. Adequate amounts of petrol and diesel should be arranged to support any rescue operations that may be required. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of having enough food, clean drinking water, and essential supplies at flood relief camps, along with sufficient stock of medicines at medical camps.
The relief commissioner also directed officials to ensure the security of food stocks in areas at risk of flooding.
The NDMA is regularly sharing updates with the disaster management responders to ensure they take necessary precautionary measures. They have been instructed to evacuate people residing in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding and to position flood fighting equipment and machinery accordingly.
