PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued an extreme flood alert for the Swat river after water levels near Khwazakhela surged to 77,782 cusecs, due to persistent heavy rainfall.
In light of this dangerous development, the districts of Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera have been placed on high alert. The PDMA has formally advised district administrations and relevant departments to take immediate precautionary measures to safeguard human lives, property, livestock, and crops.
An official notification from PDMA has directed local authorities to promptly identify flood-prone and vulnerable areas, and ensure all necessary preventive and protective measures are in place. Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and other emergency response agencies have been instructed to remain on high alert, particularly in low-lying and sensitive zones.
Communities living along the banks of the Kabul River and its tributaries are being warned in advance of potential dangers, and steps are being taken to ensure timely evacuation if required. Moreover, district officials have been ordered to begin relocating at-risk populations to safe zones, and to establish relief camps equipped with food, medicines, and temporary shelter.
Farmers and livestock owners have been strongly advised to move their animals to safer ground away from riverbanks and floodplains. The general public has also been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, especially near flooded or vulnerable areas, and to refrain from driving through waterlogged roads.
PDMA has also directed all departments to pre-deploy machinery and essential equipment at key locations to ensure rapid response in the event of road blockages or water accumulation. The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) is fully operational 24/7, and citizens are encouraged to contact the helpline 1700 for assistance or to report any emergency situation.
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