The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood alert for the Chenab River as India plans silt flushing operations at the Salal Dam.
According to the Irrigation Department, the Ministry of Water Resources and the Pakistan Commissioner for Indus Waters (PCIW) have informed that spillway gates of the Salal Dam on the Chenab River will remain open from 21 May 2026 (9:00 AM) to 30 May 2026 for reservoir desilting.
Officials warned that the river’s water level could rise suddenly by 2 to 3 meters due to the controlled release of water and heavy sediment discharge. This may also cause significant fluctuations in flows entering Pakistan, particularly at Marala Barrage.
In response, the Irrigation Department has placed field formations on high alert to closely monitor river conditions, regulate canal withdrawals, and ensure the safe operation of barrage systems.
Preparedness measures
Authorities in multiple districts — including Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh and Chiniot — have been instructed to strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms.
Key directives include maintaining 24/7 staffing in District Emergency Operation Centres (DEOCs) for coordination, ensuring timely dissemination of warnings and evacuation guidance through electronic and social media, and pre-positioning heavy machinery at vulnerable points to manage breaches and restore access routes.
Officials have also been directed to reinforce embankments, remove obstructions from waterways, deploy additional personnel in high-risk areas, and keep Rescue 1122 and search-and-rescue teams on standby with necessary equipment.
Authorities will continue to generate regular situation reports (SITREPs) and collect data for the post-event.
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