Just as many parts of Pakistan begin recovering from days of relentless rain, another powerful monsoon system is on the horizon—raising fresh concerns over flooding, infrastructure damage, and public safety.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that a strong monsoon spell will start from July 29, and widespread rainfall is expected in Islamabad, upper Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and upper river catchment areas.

Flood Forecasting Division said the overall river situation in the country continues to remain stable though the water level has already risen at Marala on Chenab and Balloki on Ravi. Currently the Indus, Jhelum and Kabul rivers are facing low-level flooding and are likely to rise further over the next few days.

Punjab continues to remain the worst hit by monsoon. Several districts received heavy rain with Noorpur Thal receiving 115mm of rain followed by Gujranwala (107mm) and Gujrat (94mm). In response, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 for 60 days, banning swimming, bathing in rainwater and unauthorized boating in rivers, canals, lakes, dams and ponds to reduce the risk of accidents.

Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has intensified preparedness efforts meanwhile. Officials have visited flood-prone areas, reviewed protective embankments and directed local administrations to speed up drainage operations and repair damaged bunds. Relief camps have been directed to ensure uninterrupted supplies of food, clean drinking water, medicines and emergency services, while authorities have also been ordered to initiate door-to-door awareness campaigns in vulnerable communities.

The PDMA chief reviewed relief activities being carried out by the district administration, Rescue 1122, Irrigation Department and other relevant institutions and directed them to improve coordination and communication.

He said the top priority of the Punjab government is to ensure the lives and property of the people and directed all relevant institutions to remain fully alert and ensure uninterrupted relief and rehabilitation activities in the affected areas.

With another round of intense weather on the way, officials are encouraging residents to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel in flooded areas and heed safety advisories. As Pakistan enters another critical phase of the monsoon season, preparedness could be the difference between disruption and disaster.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)