Rescue Operations Continue as Floodwaters Affect Dozens of Villages in Punjab
LAHORE: Rescue and relief operations remain underway across several parts of Punjab as floodwaters continue to impact dozens of villages in Sheikhupura district, although officials say water levels have started to recede in some areas.
According to the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), flooding in Ferozewala, Muridke, and Kala Shah Kaku has affected more than 94 villages, causing widespread disruption to homes, farmland, and local infrastructure.
Hundreds of Homes and Thousands of Acres Affected
Official figures show that 1,215 houses have been affected by the flooding, including over 1,000 homes in Ferozewala and around 140 in Muridke.
The floods have also inundated approximately 43,188 acres of agricultural land, creating significant challenges for local communities and farmers.
Rescue and Relief Efforts Expanded
Authorities have continued to strengthen rescue operations in flood-hit areas by deploying additional boats to reach residents in villages that remain partially submerged.
According to the PDMA:
- 738 people have been safely evacuated.
- 46 livestock have also been rescued.
- 13 relief camps have been established for displaced families.
- Medical teams and mobile health units have treated more than 1,600 patients.
- Over 4,000 ration bags have been distributed among affected households.
- Rescue teams have deployed multiple water-pumping units to remove standing water from residential areas.
Police personnel have also been stationed in affected locations to help maintain public safety and protect property.
Water Levels Showing Signs of Improvement
Local officials reported that water levels in the Bhed and Deg nullahs have gradually declined, allowing conditions to improve in several neighborhoods, including Pathan Colony, Noorpur, and Rahim Colony.
Residents also confirmed that floodwaters inside many homes have started to recede, making rescue and relief work more effective.
However, authorities cautioned that additional rainfall forecast over the coming days could increase the risk of renewed flooding in low-lying areas.
Officials Continue Field Visits
Senior administrative officials, including the Lahore Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner of Sheikhupura, have continued visiting affected areas to monitor rescue operations and assess damages.
Local administrations are coordinating with rescue services and other government departments to ensure that relief reaches affected communities as quickly as possible.
Flood Forecast for Punjab
The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) has said that the Indus River is expected to remain at a medium flood level near Guddu Barrage before similar conditions develop at Sukkur Barrage.
The department also stated that water levels in the Ravi, Chenab, Jhelum, Sutlej, and Kabul rivers have generally declined and are currently below low flood levels.
However, the FFD has warned that several seasonal streams and nullahs connected to the Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi river systems may experience medium to high water flows in the coming days, particularly if further rainfall occurs.
Authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to stay informed through official weather and disaster management updates and to follow safety instructions issued by local administrations.
