ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flash flood alert for local nullahs (streams) and streams in Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The alert, issued by NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), warns of potential flooding in several regions due to the ongoing monsoon spell expected to continue until July 7th.
Specific areas identified for potential flooding include Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Narowal, Murree, Galliyat, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Dir, Swat, Kashmir, and hill torrents of D.G Khan and Rajanpur. Urban areas such as Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar are also cautioned about the risk of urban flooding.
The Federal Flood Division and other relevant departments have forecasted medium-level flooding in River Kabul, with an anticipated water flow of 93.5 thousand cusecs. However, normal water flows are expected in other major rivers.
NDMA has advised Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and local administrations to closely monitor the situation and take necessary measures to protect vulnerable populations. They have also urged the public to stay informed and adhere to instructions from local authorities. NDMA encourages downloading their ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile app for timely disaster alerts, guidelines, and precautionary measures.
Earlier, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) directed pharmaceutical companies, including the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) and Pharma Bureau, to ensure ample stocks of medicines and raw materials ahead of the monsoon season. This directive aims to prepare for diseases commonly seen during the monsoon, such as malaria, typhoid, and diarrhea, ensuring that medical supplies are readily available to meet potential health challenges.
