Karachi: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has advised the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Sindh to initiate the evacuation of vulnerable communities residing along the katcha areas and low-lying belts of the River Indus and its tributaries.

According to Radio Pakistan, the NDMA issued this advisory due to the exceptionally high and very high flood levels currently being recorded at upstream locations in Rivers Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej. It is anticipated that these floodwaters will eventually lead to increased flows in the River Indus, posing a significant threat to the communities along its banks.

The NDMA has emphasized the need to identify and prepare safe evacuation routes and designate temporary shelters equipped with essential services. The authority urged provincial officials to ensure the strategic placement of heavy machinery and equipment, such as dewatering pumps, excavators, and transport vehicles, to facilitate a timely response.

In addition, the NDMA advised ensuring the availability of necessary relief supplies, including food, safe drinking water, tents, medicines, and non-food items, at district and tehsil levels. It also stressed the importance of ensuring adequate fuel and transport availability for quick mobilization during emergencies.

Regarding the reinforcement of critical infrastructure, the NDMA called for the monitoring of embankments, bunds, and canals to detect any breaches, seepages, or weak points. It emphasized the need for immediate reinforcement and plugging arrangements and highlighted the importance of ensuring power backup and flood protection measures for critical health facilities and water supply schemes.

The NDMA also underscored the need for effective community awareness and early warning systems. It highlighted the importance of disseminating timely early warning messages to at-risk populations through local administration, mosques, media, and community networks. The mobilization of local volunteers and community-based organizations is deemed critical to support evacuation and relief efforts.