LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert ahead of the 11th spell of monsoon rains forecast from September 16 to 19.

According to a PDMA spokesperson, rainfall is expected in the upper reaches of rivers during this period, raising the risk of flooding. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said that, in line with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s directives, commissioners, deputy commissioners, and other relevant officials across the province had been placed on alert.

Departments including Health, Irrigation, Construction and Communications, Local Government, and Livestock have also been directed to remain prepared for emergency situations.

Citizens were advised to adopt precautionary measures in light of the expected weather. The DG urged people to avoid gatherings near rivers and to refrain from recreational activities in vulnerable areas. He further cautioned the public to stay in safe places during storms and avoid unnecessary travel.

The PDMA helpline 1129 will remain active round-the-clock for emergency assistance.

Read More: PDMA issues flood warning as heavy rains lash KP

Govt announces power bill waiver for flood-hit regions

Meanwhile, the federal government has announced relief for flood victims by waiving electricity bills in the affected areas and refunding payments already made.

Federal Minister for Power Awais Leghari thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for what he called a “timely and people-friendly” decision. He said the waiver and refunds would be implemented immediately.

Earlier, the prime minister had directed power distribution companies to halt collection of August 2025 bills in flood-hit regions.

A statement from the PM’s Office added that a detailed relief package would be announced after finalising matters with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). It further said that consumers who had already paid their August bills would see the amounts adjusted in the following month.

The premier reiterated that floods had displaced millions across the country and pledged that the government would “continue all-out rescue and rehabilitation efforts until every displaced person returns home.”