Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous region, is in the grip of a severe flood emergency as relentless monsoon rains and massive water releases from Indian dams push rivers beyond danger levels. The Army has now been deployed across six districts to aid rescue efforts.
The NDMA warned Lahore and surrounding areas face “very high to exceptionally high” flood risk, with Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers swelling rapidly. Embankment breaches in Narowal, Sialkot, and Shakargarh have submerged villages, while the collapse of Hanjli Bridge in Zafarwal cut off dozens of communities.
India’s release of 200,000 cusecs into the Ravi and 100,000 into the Chenab has sparked fears of worsening floods within 48 hours. Residents in low-lying zones are being urged to evacuate immediately as rescue teams race against time.
The Punjab government has called in the Army to assist in six districts, including Lahore, Kasur, and Faisalabad. Over 174,000 people have been relocated so far, but continued rainfall and rising waters threaten millions more. Relief camps are operational, though resources remain under extreme strain.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed swift relief measures, stressing the provision of food, medicines, and shelter. With 802 lives already lost to this year’s monsoon floods—half in just the past month—Punjab faces one of its deadliest flood crises in decades.
