Authorities warn of flooding in Chenab River as monsoon rains continue to lash Pakistan

Pakistan's civil defence rescue workers monitor the flood-affected river Ravi in Lahore on July 16, 2023. (AFP/File)

• Chenab River is likely to reach ‘high to very high level flows’ due to heavy rainfall in catchment areas
• Disaster management authorities say flooding may inundate low-lying areas, damage infrastructure

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of high level of flooding in Chenab River after heavy monsoon showers lashed Pakistan, particularly the Punjab province, Pakistani state media reported on Saturday.
In Punjab, Multan received 116mm rain, Khanewal 51mm, Rahim Yar Khan 53mm, Dera Ghazi Khan 35mm, Layyah 31mm, Bhakkar 14mm and Jhelum received 12mm rain, the provincial disaster management authority said on Friday.
Heavy rains hit Islamabad, Rawalpindi and several other cities across the province early Saturday.
“Chenab River is likely to reach high to very high level flows due to heavy rainfall in catchment areas [in the next 24 hours],” the NDMA was quoted as saying by the Radio Pakistan broadcaster.
“Possible flooding may result in inundation of low lying areas and damage of infrastructure.”
It said villages and towns near Marala, Khanki and Qadirabad as well as areas along the flood plain could be affected by increasing flows.
PDMA Director-General Irfan Ali Kathia urged relevant departments to be on alert to deal with any emergency situation.
The current spell of monsoon rains is likely to continue till August 20, according to the PDMA. Citizens have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution during this period.