The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a flood alert, warning residents living near the Indus River to stay away from the riverbanks. The alert comes as spillways of the Tarbela Dam were scheduled to be opened on Sunday at 2:30 PM, increasing the outflow significantly.
According to the PDMA advisory, the dam’s water discharge is expected to rise from 160,000 to 260,000 cusecs after the opening of the spillways. Authorities have warned that this could trigger flooding in the Indus River and its linked streams and canals. Residents have been asked to take precautions and avoid visiting riversides and flood-prone areas.
The advisory also instructed district administrations to remain alert and keep local communities informed. Moreover, parents are advised to ensure children stay away from canals, while fishermen and cattle herders are urged to move to safer locations. Tourists and residents have been told to strictly follow all safety instructions.
The PDMA emphasized that in case of any emergency, people should immediately call helpline 1700. This warning follows an earlier alert issued this month when officials first discussed the possible opening of Tarbela’s spillways due to increased water levels during the 2025 flood season.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also issued a weather alert through its National Emergency Operations Center. It warned of moderate to heavy monsoon rains from July 13, which could cause significant rises in river levels across the country.
Currently, low-level flooding is occurring at Tarbela, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages, while Kalabagh and Chashma are experiencing medium-level flooding. Forecasts suggest that water flow could increase sharply in the Indus, Kabul, Jhelum (especially near Mangla), and Chenab rivers during the ongoing monsoon spell.