PMDA Warns Glacial Lake Bursts: Upper KP in Threatened

News Desk

Peshawar: The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Disaster Management Authority, PMDA, issued a high alert warning over heightened risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods.

Due to ongoing rains and increasing glacial melt, flash floods in glaciated regions like Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, and Upper Kohistan are also predicted.

A formal letter to Deputy Commissioners and authorities has been urged to enhance surveillance at vulnerable areas. They are also urged to activate early warning mechanisms, conduction of evacuation drills, and raising awareness among residents.

The residents of these areas, and tourists, are advised to avoid fast flowing rivers and streams.

National Highway Authority, Frontier Works Organisation, and the Communications and Works Department have been engaged in coordinated efforts to ensure rapid road clearance and infrastructure readiness.

Additional precautions regarding establishment of evacuation centers and fully operational Emergency Operations Centers available through the “1700” helpline.

The alert follows a recent spell of downpours that has already claimed over 64 lives nationwide. This also includes 23 deaths from landslides and river overflows in KP.

PMDA’s warning underlines the need for caution, preparedness, and swift response to mitigate the impact of potential glacial lake outburst floods and associated flash flooding.