Indus Flood Alert Issued at Kalabagh and Chashma Amid Monsoon

Low-level flooding has been reported at Kalabagh and Chashma along the Indus River as Punjab authorities intensify monitoring during the continuing monsoon spell. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority said on Sunday that most major rivers remain within normal limits, but conditions at vulnerable points require sustained vigilance.

Water flow at Kalabagh was recorded at approximately 272,000 cusecs, while the level at Chashma reached about 273,000 cusecs. Although both locations remain in the low-flood category, officials are closely watching upstream rainfall and changing river inflows that could alter conditions in downstream districts.

The PDMA reported that flows in the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi and Sutlej rivers were currently normal. Conditions in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan had also stabilised, providing some relief to communities that face recurring risks when intense rainfall sends sudden surges through seasonal waterways.

Elsewhere, a medium-level flood was recorded in Nullah Palkhu near Wazirabad, where the flow reached around 3,400 cusecs. Nullah Basantar in Narowal was also experiencing low-level flooding, prompting local authorities to maintain surveillance around nearby roads, settlements and low-lying agricultural land.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Jappa warned that rising flows could create hazards in exposed areas and directed relevant departments to remain prepared. Provincial and district administrations are expected to keep rescue services, machinery and field teams ready in case rainfall produces a rapid increase in rivers, drains or hill torrents.

The fourth monsoon spell is forecast to continue until August 5, with rainfall in upper catchment areas potentially raising water levels in eastern rivers and connected streams. River conditions can change quickly when sustained rain falls across upstream regions, making real-time gauge readings and coordination between districts essential.

Authorities have separately cautioned that urban flooding may affect Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Multan. The threat is particularly serious in neighbourhoods with inadequate drainage, where short but intense downpours can inundate roads, disrupt traffic, damage property and delay emergency access.

Landslide risks also remain in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous locations, where saturated slopes can become unstable during prolonged rain. Travellers have been advised to monitor weather and official alerts, while residents near rivers, storm drains and natural water channels should avoid unnecessary movement through hazardous areas.

Low-level flooding does not necessarily indicate an immediate large-scale disaster, but it serves as an early warning that the river system is carrying elevated volumes of water. The impact could extend to farming, transport and local commerce if rainfall persists, particularly in communities where crops, livestock and homes are situated close to floodplains.

The PDMA is expected to continue reviewing river flows and weather developments throughout the remaining monsoon spell. Residents in vulnerable districts have been urged to follow government safety instructions, avoid crossing swollen waterways and report emerging hazards promptly as authorities assess whether additional evacuations or protective measures are required.