The heavy monsoon rains have led to alarming flooding in several districts of Punjab and parts of Balochistan, with major rivers overflowing and causing widespread damage. The national death toll has reached 193, with Punjab alone reporting 63 fatalities. The situation remains critical as emergency response teams continue rescue and relief operations in affected areas.
The Indus River at Kalabagh is experiencing medium-level flooding, while low-level flooding has been observed at Tarbela Dam, Chashma Barrage, Guddu, and Sukkur barrages. Authorities have issued a flood warning in anticipation of more rain from July 21.
Civic administrations, alongside the police, Rescue 1122, and Pakistan Army personnel, have been working around the clock to evacuate and assist residents trapped by floodwaters. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has activated its Control Room and District Emergency Operation Centers to monitor the situation 24/7, with the PDMA Director General urging caution among the public.
“We’ve rescued more than 1,000 people across Potohar Plateau, including 398 in Jhelum, 209 in Chakwal, and 450 in Rawalpindi,” stated DG Kathia, who emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel and staying clear of electric poles and wires.
The flood rescue operations are being carried out using both helicopters and boats, depending on accessibility. One dramatic case involved the airlifting of a family trapped in a raging flash flood in Mandi Bahauddin, where other residents were also evacuated to safer ground. The flooding even inundated the District Jail Mandi Bahauddin, forcing the transfer of inmates to Hafizabad Jail.
Authorities continue to warn residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, adhere to precautionary measures, and stay informed of updates as further rainfall is expected to exacerbate the situation.
