SIALKOT: Severe flooding in Sialkot forced the closure of all educational institutions on Thursday.
The government issued a notification urging all concerned authorities to strictly enforce the order for the safety of the public.
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Meanwhile, the Guna Bridge in Pasrur on the Sialkot Road collapsed due to flood damage, severing the land connection between Sialkot and Pasrur.
Rising river levels across Punjab
The flood situation is critical in Punjab, with several rivers and streams experiencing high water levels. The Pakistan Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that the Chenab River at Head Marala is at a high flood stage, with inflow reaching 397,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) and discharge recorded at around 390,000 cusecs.
Flood warnings and monitoring in Lahore
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited Shahdara in Lahore to assess the flood situation. She observed the rising water level in the River Ravi near the Shahdara Bridge and inspected flood safety dams and other protective infrastructure.
The chief minister directed relevant authorities to evacuate people and livestock from vulnerable river crossings.
According to the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore, the water flow in the Ravi River at Shahdara reached 90,000 cusecs. Officials expect that the flow may increase by an additional 150,000 cusecs, possibly reaching 200,000 cusecs by an additonal in the coming days.
Rescue efforts by Pakistan army
The army carried out rescue and relief operations in flood-affected areas. In the town of Daska, dozens of people were moved to safer locations.
So far, around 80 people have been rescued.
Emergency contact numbers for flood-affected districts
To assist those affected, emergency contact numbers were issued for several districts across Punjab. Residents in Sahiwal can call 03040920056, 0409200499, or 03040920086.
Tandlianwala residents may contact 03230660267, 03218515007, or 0409200499.
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For Jaranwala, the number is 03326695050, and Pakpattan residents can reach 03457308886.
Public advisory
Authorities urged the public to stay alert and follow all safety instructions.