The Chinese company working on the Tarbela dam's 5th Extension Project on Saturday temporarily suspended construction work after water entered the site. The company also vacated its camp by granting leave to employees.
In Gilgit-Baltistan and other areas, heavy rainfall has raised the water level in the Tarbela reservoir, prompting the opening of spillways. As a result, a medium-level flood is flowing in the Indus River.
On Thursday, the water level at Tarbela Dam was recorded at 1,547.96 feet. According to the dam administration, Tarbela's storage capacity is 1,550 feet. The inflow of water stood at 405,000 cusecs, while the outflow was 370,300 cusecs.
Monsoon rains and melting glaciers have significantly increased water flow in Punjab's rivers.
According to a Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) spokesperson in Punjab, a medium-level flood has been recorded in the Indus River at Kalabagh and Chashma barrages, while Tarbela and Taunsa barrages are experiencing low-level flooding.
At Ganda Singh Wala, the Sutlej River's flow has reached 68,000 cusecs, maintaining a low-level flood.
Meanwhile, water levels in the Jhelum and Chenab rivers remain normal at key points, though a low-level flood is continuing in Nullah Palkhu Cantt. Similarly, the Ravi River is flowing normally, but rising levels in Nullah Basantar are causing a low-level flood.
Regarding dam levels, the PDMA stated that Tarbela Dam is 98% full and Mangla Dam is 68% full. Tarbela's water level has been recorded at 1,547.94 feet, while Mangla stands at 1,211.15 feet.
On the special directive of Swabi Deputy Commissioner Nasrullah Khan, additional assistant commissioner-II Lahore visited the Hund site of the Indus River. During the inspection, action was taken to ensure enforcement of Section 144.
People bathing in the river were immediately removed, and the public was strictly instructed to fully comply with Section 144 and avoid entering the water for their own safety. Section 144 is a legal provision that allows authorities to restrict certain public gatherings and activities in specific areas.
Punjab PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia also warned citizens that precautionary measures are essential under the current circumstances. People living in riverbeds have been urged to move to safe areas immediately and to fully cooperate with authorities in case of emergency evacuations.
"Citizens have been strictly advised not to bathe in rivers, canals, streams, or ponds and to avoid picnicking along riverbanks during the flood situation.
"Parents have been urged not to allow their children near rivers or streams under any circumstances. In case of emergency, people can contact PDMA Punjab's helpline at 1129. Protecting lives and property remains the authority's foremost responsibility," a PDMA statement said.
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