ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan reported on Sunday that India has released 185,000 cusecs of water into the River Ravi. As a result, the NDMA warned that the high flood is expected to affect the area within the next 20 to 24 hours, urging local authorities and relevant departments to enhance preparedness.
Under the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, India is allotted control over the River Ravi, as well as the Sutlej and Beas rivers. Last year, India had released 173 cusecs of water into the River Ravi.
Meanwhile, in Gujrat, the deputy commissioner said that the high flood in the area could potentially impact 59 local villages. This is considered a seasonal phenomenon following the monsoon rains in the river’s catchment area.
The River Chenab is currently flowing at 122,000 cusecs at Marala, indicating low-level flooding. It is projected that around 170,000 cusecs of water will flow in the next 24 hours. Additionally, near Nowshera, water is flowing at a rate of 63,000 cusecs.
Monsoon Rains Devastation in Pakistan
The NDMA provided an update on the monsoon season in Pakistan, stating that a total of 76 people have lost their lives since June 25. During the last 24 hours, nine more deaths and eight injuries were reported. Punjab has recorded the highest death toll of 48, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 20 deaths, Balochistan with five, and Azad Kashmir with three.
According to the NDMA, out of the 76 casualties, 30 were men, 15 were women, and 31 were children. Additionally, 78 houses have been damaged. The total number of reported injuries are 133, including 38 women, 48 men, and 48 children.
In terms of rainfall, Nagarparkar in Sindh recorded the highest amount with 111 mm during the last 24 hours. In Punjab, Narowal received the heaviest rain at 36 mm, while in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kakul received 21 mm.
While mainly dry weather is expected in most parts of Pakistan in the next 24 hours, rain and thundershowers are expected in Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, upper Punjab, and southeast Sindh, according to weather forecast.
