Floods in Pakistani Punjab kill 63, emergency imposed in several districts
PTC Web Desk: Heavy rainfall and severe flooding in several districts of Punjab, Pakistan, on Thursday led to the deaths of 63 persons and injured 290 others. In response to the worsening conditions, the local authorities have declared an emergency in several regions.
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported deaths across various districts, including 15 in Lahore, nine in Faisalabad, five in Sahiwal, three in Pakpattan, and nine in Okara. The Pakistan government has announced compensation for next of kin of the deceased.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had issued a weather warning on Monday, forecasting heavy rains with thunderstorms across the country until July 17. These conditions are being attributed to the unusual rainfall and flooding in the region.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce the emergency measures, urging citizens to cooperate with the local authorities. She said, "Due to the extraordinary rainfall and flooding, emergency has been imposed in various districts of Punjab."
Rescue operations are underway in Jhelum, where people trapped by floodwaters are being evacuated. Local officials confirmed that 57 persons have been rescued so far, with over 50 boats deployed in the rescue effort. More than 15,000 rescue personnel and 800 boats are on high alert.
Authorities in Islamabad have also been put on high alert, with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) instructing officials to provide all possible assistance to citizens during the emergency. CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa directed field teams to closely monitor all highways, drains, and waterways in the capital.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall in various parts of the country over the next 24 hours, with the possibility of more severe flooding.
According to Radio Pakistan, districts like Lahore, Chakwal, Attock, Jhelum, Khushab, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Sialkot in Punjab are expected to receive significant rainfall.
In Chakwal, the situation worsened when a cloudburst led to 400 mm s of rain within 10 hours, resulting in flash floods in the city.
- With inputs from agencies
