On Thursday, the provincial Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a meteorological warning warning of the heavy monsoon rains in Lahore and several other cities in the province, urging the relevant services and the public to remain vigilant.
According to the director general of the PDMA, Irfan Ali Kathia, the seventh rains of monsoon has started and should continue until August 21. He warned that this spell is much stronger than the previous ones and can cause intense precipitation through the watersheds of the river as well as the plains of Punjab.
“Mosson showers are likely to affect most districts in the province,” said Kathia, noting that urban and rural areas could be affected.
In response to forecasts, the head of the PDMA ordered all the sub-commissioners to ensure the preparation on the ground. He stressed that water and sanitation agencies (WASA), 1122 rescue and other relevant departments must remain on high alert throughout the weather cycle.
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Officials were invited to ensure rapid drainage of rainwater in low zones and deploy staff and machines to strangulation points. An additional accent was put on the maintenance of effective drainage systems around roads, hospitals and public institutions to avoid disturbances.
Kathia added that all water elimination stations must remain operational, with ready emergency power systems in the event of breakdowns.
Undering the prudence of the public, the DG called on citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and leisure activities near the rivers, warning that flooding conditions persist in several bodies of water in the province.
The PDMA said that he would continue to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with district administrations to mitigate any potential damage.
