Tarbela Dam Water Release: Warnings for Downstream Residents – Pakistan
Tarbela Dam Spillways Open: PDMA Issues Urgent Warning to Downstream Communities
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a critical alert, urging residents downstream of the Tarbela Dam to stay clear of the Indus River banks. The warning comes as the dam’s spillways are scheduled to be opened, wiht significant water releases expected.
Anticipated Water levels and Flood Risks
The PDMA’s alert, released on Sunday, stated that the spillways would be opened at 2:30 PM. This action is anticipated to result in water levels ranging from 160,000 to 260,000 cusecs. Consequently, the authority has cautioned that flooding is a distinct possibility along the Indus River, its tributaries, and associated canals.
Safety Directives for the Public
in response to the impending water release, the PDMA has directed district administrations to ensure local populations are kept informed and vigilant. The public has been strongly advised to avoid venturing near rivers and canals.specific emphasis has been placed on parental supervision, with a plea for children to be kept away from canal areas.
Key Safety Recommendations:
Stay Away from River Banks: All individuals downstream are urged to maintain a safe distance from the Indus River and its tributaries.
Children’s safety: Parents are reminded to ensure children do not go near canals.
Fishermen and Livestock Keepers: Those involved in fishing or managing livestock have been advised to relocate to safer areas.
Tourists and Locals: Both tourists and local residents are implored to heed the PDMA’s advisory to ensure their safety.
Emergency Contact Details
In the event of any untoward situation or emergency, the public is instructed to contact the PDMA by dialing 1700.
Broader Context: Monsoon Preparedness and River Flows
This warning follows a similar advisory issued earlier this month, indicating that the Tarbela Dam’s spillways were likely to be operated for the first time in the 2025 flood season.
Adding to the current situation, the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued a weather alert on Friday. This alert forecasts moderate to heavy monsoon rains across multiple regions of Pakistan,commencing from Sunday,July 13th,and expected to last for three days.The forecast suggests ample increases in river flows, particularly in the Indus, Kabul, Jhelum (upstream of Mangla), and Chenab rivers. Currently, the Tarbela, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages are reported to be at low flood levels, while the Kalabagh and Chashma barrages are at medium flood levels. This confluence of factors underscores the importance of the PDMA’s proactive safety measures.