LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab with the emergence of upcoming monsoon season approaches, has ramped up its preparations to mitigate the impact of anticipated heavy rainfall.
According to PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia, the region is likely to experience 35 per ent more rainfall than usual this year, raising concerns about potential urban flooding.
Kathia emphasized the urgency of completing all preparatory measures before the onset of the monsoon. “The forecast indicates an unusually high volume of rain, which necessitates thorough preparations to protect communities and infrastructure,” he stated.
In response to the heightened risk, PDMA has intensified efforts to clean rivers and canals to ensure smooth water flow and minimize the risk of flooding.
“Our teams are working around the clock to clear obstructions and improve drainage systems,” Kathia added.
Meanwhile, the director of weather forecasting, Dr Babar, told the media that monsoon rains have started from Sindh, especially Karachi. He has also indicated that the monsoon winds are advancing towards the rest of the country and are set to bring heavy rains to various regions within the next 24 hours.
He stated that more than normal rainfall is expected in July and August, which raises concerns about flooding in rivers and canals, as well as the potential for urban flooding in the northeastern and southeastern parts of the country. He further warned of potential flooding in canals and nullahs.
“There will be heavy rain in Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, KP, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan,” Dr Babar said. He emphasized the need for preparedness to mitigate the impacts of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
Read more: Monsoon Alert: Met Dept Predicts Heavy Rain Across Pakistan In 24 Hours
