Punjab Floods: Death Toll 97, 2.45 Million Displaced as Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej Overflow
Punjab is facing one of the worst floods in its history, with 97 people reported dead and 2.45 million displaced from 4,500 villages along the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). Rescue and evacuation operations continue as rivers reach record-high levels.
Evacuations and Breaches
Authorities have carried out 19 controlled breaches to protect cities like Jalalpur and Alipur. Efforts are ongoing to repair the breached dyke in Shujabad. Many flood-affected areas remain without electricity and mobile coverage, prompting authorities to use drones to deliver food and essential supplies to stranded residents.
In Shujabad, a collapsed dyke at Mouza Dhundwala flooded several villages, sending water toward the city. Three workers sent to repair the breach were swept away; two were rescued, while the third is feared dead.
Impact on Alipur and Jalalpur
Alipur has been declared a calamity-hit area, with many residents stranded on rooftops. Rescue teams deployed boats, though one capsized in Darabpur village; all passengers were eventually rescued. In Jalalpur and other affected areas, thousands have been evacuated with the help of local authorities and rescue teams.
Rescue Operations
According to Rescue spokesperson Farooq Ahmad:
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Jalalpur Pirwala: 18,130 rescued
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Liaqatpur (Rahim Yar Khan): 11,700 rescued
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Alipur: 6,400 rescued
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Other districts: Nearly 20,000 people rescued in the past 24 hours across Punjab
Sindh Flooding
In Sindh, the Indus River overflowed near the Dadu-Moro Bridge, submerging more than 30 villages. Residents have been displaced, and medical teams have been deployed to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Health camps and mobile ambulances are assisting the affected population.
Government Response
Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabil Javaid highlighted the scale of the disaster, noting that 1.9 million livestock have been moved to safe locations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised provincial and regional governments, including Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, for leading prompt and effective flood relief operations.
Warnings and Forecast
The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) has issued very high flood warnings for Head Panjnad, Sidhnai, and Ganda Singh Wala, while high flood levels persist at Head Sulemanki, Head Islam, and Mailsi Syphon. Authorities continue to monitor river levels closely and urge residents to follow safety instructions and cooperate with rescue teams.
