MURREE: Schools in Murree will remain closed for two days after the administration announced holidays on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 19 and 20.
The move come after a directive from the Chief Executive Officer of the District Education Authority. The decision was made in response to continuous heavy rainfall in the region.
Heavy rains have caused rivers and canals to overflow, and water accumulation has been reported in areas such as Kahuta GPO Chowk and Mall Road. Landslides in Galiyat have also led to the closure of the highway connecting Murree and Abbottabad.
Authorities have expressed concern over the possibility of a cloudburst in the area. The local administration has issued alerts to both residents and tourists, urging them to stay away from rivers and canals. Rain is expected to continue in Murree over the next 24 to 48 hours.
In New Murree, landslides have also led to the closure of the road from New Murree to Sanj Morri. Several trees have also fallen due to the rain.
PDMA ISSUES WARNING
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a monsoon rain alert for various districts across the province, including Murree.
PDMA Director Irfan Ali Kathia has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province to remain alert. These monsoon rains may lead to increased water levels in rivers and nearby streams. There is also a risk of flash flooding in stormwater drains, and the administration is on alert for potential urban flooding in major cities.
Alerts have also been sent to departments including Health, Irrigation, Construction and Communications, Local Government, and Livestock. Citizens have been advised to take necessary precautions during the expected weather conditions.
CLOUDBURST WARNING ISSUED
The PDMA has also warned of possible cloudburst and heavy rains in most districts of the province, particularly in the upper region, over the next 24 hours.
Director General PDMA Punjab, Irfan Ali Kathia, said the seventh spell of monsoon rains is relatively stronger, with the possibility of torrential downpours and cloudbursts in upper Punjab districts.
