Lahore – The Director General of the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Irfan Ali Kathia, has clarified that there is currently no flood emergency in Punjab. However, he cautioned that in the coming days, more rainfall is expected, and river flows will be closely monitored due to possible inflows from across the border in India.
Speaking to the media in Lahore on Friday, DG PDMA said that most flood-affected families have started returning to their homes, and rehabilitation efforts are continuing across the province. He emphasized that the government is committed to restoring normalcy in all affected districts and ensuring that losses suffered by the people are adequately compensated.
Rehabilitation in Flood-Affected Areas
Kathia explained that surveys are actively being conducted in 27 districts of Punjab to assess the damage caused by recent floods. These surveys are being carried out by joint teams comprising representatives from various departments to ensure fairness, transparency, and accuracy in the evaluation of losses. “We want the process to be completely impartial so that every affected citizen receives the compensation they deserve,” he stated.
He further said that the process of repairing flood-damaged roads and highways is underway. In many areas, damaged infrastructure has been restored to allow mobility and transport of relief goods. However, he admitted that in some localities, waterlogging still persists, creating difficulties for residents. Drainage operations are being carried out to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.
No Immediate Flood Risk
The DG PDMA made it clear that Punjab is not facing a flood emergency at the moment. The rivers of the province, including the Sutlej and Ravi, are flowing at normal levels. Still, he cautioned that India has released water in the past without prior notice, and inflows into Pakistan’s rivers cannot be ruled out. According to him, the Sutlej River could receive additional water from India, while the Ravi River is expected to have an inflow of nearly 35,000 cusecs in the coming days.
“Even though the rivers are currently stable, our monitoring teams are on high alert,” Kathia said. “We are working in close coordination with the Meteorological Department to keep track of weather conditions, and our disaster response units are prepared for any emergency situation.”
Weather Outlook
Meteorological forecasts suggest that Punjab may experience more rainfall in the coming days, which could cause localized flooding in low-lying areas. The PDMA has advised the public to remain cautious, particularly in areas near riverbanks, canals, and floodplains. Emergency response teams have been placed on standby in vulnerable districts to provide immediate assistance if the need arises.
The DG also noted that during the last spell of heavy rains, several districts were severely affected, but timely response from rescue services and coordination between local administrations helped prevent large-scale human loss. “The challenge now is to complete the rehabilitation process and prepare ourselves for future risks,” he remarked.
Survey and Compensation Process
According to PDMA, the survey teams are documenting the extent of losses to homes, crops, and infrastructure. The data collected will be used to distribute financial assistance and aid packages to the victims. “The government is determined to make sure that those who lost their livelihoods and properties are compensated fairly,” Kathia reassured.
He added that the Chief Minister’s Office and other relevant government bodies are directly monitoring the relief and rehabilitation operations. Coordination with district administrations has also been strengthened to ensure that help reaches the grassroots level.
Public Safety Measures
The DG PDMA appealed to the citizens to cooperate with the authorities during the ongoing survey process. He stressed that accurate data is essential for relief distribution and warned against misinformation. Citizens were also urged to avoid traveling to riverine areas unnecessarily, especially as water inflows may rise in the coming weeks.
In case of further rainfall or river water inflows from India, the PDMA plans to establish relief camps in vulnerable areas. Rescue 1122, health teams, and district administrations have been instructed to remain prepared to provide shelter, medical assistance, and food supplies to any displaced persons.
Overall Situation Under Control
Summarizing the current situation, Kathia said: “The situation is under control in Punjab. There is no cause for panic. At the same time, we cannot be complacent. Our teams are working round the clock, and we are ready for any eventuality.”
He concluded by assuring the people of Punjab that the government, with the help of all relevant institutions, is making every possible effort to safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure.
