LAHORE: Punjab has declared a flood emergency after record-breaking monsoon rains caused deadly floods across several districts. In the past 24 hours, over 60 people have lost their lives due to rain-related incidents, while hundreds have been injured.
According to officials, the situation turned critical after heavy rains flooded low-lying areas and rivers began to overflow. A spokesperson from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed that 63 people died and nearly 290 were injured in various parts of Punjab within one day.
Emergency in Several Districts
The provincial government responded by declaring a state of emergency in multiple districts. These include Lahore, Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Faisalabad, Okara, and Jhelum.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that a state of emergency had been declared due to the severity of the flooding. She urged the public to remain alert and cooperate with local authorities. Sirens and loudspeaker announcements were used to warn people in flood-prone areas.
Rescue operations are underway across the province, with help from the Pakistan Army. In Jhelum, over 50 rescue boats have been deployed to evacuate trapped citizens in several villages. So far, around 57 people have been rescued.
Floodwaters Submerge Cities
In Chakwal, a cloudburst resulted in 400 millimeters of rainfall in just 10 hours, causing flash floods. Water entered homes, offices, and even the Rescue 1122 building. Footage from local TV channels showed streets turned into rivers and residents struggling to move through the water.
The PDMA reported that although the rains have stopped in some areas, water levels remain dangerously high. Relief efforts are ongoing, and authorities are monitoring the situation in low-lying areas.
Rawalpindi Faces Serious Threat
Rawalpindi was among the hardest hit. A flood alert was issued for the city’s Leh Nullah after water levels crossed the danger mark at two major points — Gawalmandi and Kattarian.
At its peak, water levels reached 20 feet, prompting the PDMA to declare a rain emergency and issue a local holiday. However, by late afternoon, the levels began to fall.
Rescue teams have been actively evacuating people and discouraging the public from gathering near flooded areas. The PDMA warned that strict action would be taken against those bathing or standing near the overflowing nullah.
Relief Equipment Deployed
The Punjab government, along with local municipal bodies, has sent rescue and relief equipment to affected areas. This includes:
- 16 motor boats
- Over 200 life jackets
- 30+ ambulances and fire trucks
- Water pumps and de-watering machines
- Jetting machines, mini trucks, and tractors
The Pakistan Army also carried out an aerial rescue mission in Rawalpindi using a helicopter to save a stranded family.
High Alert in Multiple Cities
Rescue operations and warnings have been extended to other districts as well. Teams are active in Mianwali, Chakwal, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Layyah, Rahim Yar Khan, and Attock.
More than 15,000 trained personnel and 800 rescue boats are on standby. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has issued warnings for Rawalpindi and surrounding areas, advising people to avoid travel and stay away from electric poles and open drains.
Reservoirs and River Levels Rise
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported rising water levels at major reservoirs including Tarbela, Mangla, Khanpur, Simly, and Rawal. Khanpur Dam recorded a rise of 4.5 feet. Urban flooding warnings were also issued for Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad.
The PMD stated that although the rains may ease in the next 48 hours, the risk remains high due to already high water levels.
Tragedy in Mandi Bahauddin
In Mandi Bahauddin, a 10-year-old boy drowned while bathing in rainwater. Eleven others were injured due to rain-related accidents, including roof collapses and electric shocks. Several neighborhoods were submerged under 2 to 4 feet of water.
More Rain Predicted
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has forecasted more heavy rainfall in the coming hours. Districts including Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Sheikhupura, and Gujrat are likely to be affected.
Islamabad authorities have also been instructed to remain on high alert, with emergency numbers made available to the public.
