Floods Force Repeated Evacuations in Punjab’s Kasur District
Floodwaters from the Sutlej River have displaced families in Kasur district, Punjab, forcing residents to leave their homes for the second time this year. For villagers like Shama, a mother of four, the recurring evacuations are taking a heavy toll.
“This is the second time we’ve had to leave this year,” Shama said, as her husband guided their 10 cows to higher ground. “We’ve already lost so much — school days, work, and our peace of mind. Now the floods are forcing us out again.”
The monsoon rains have turned fields into rivers, and rescue workers using boats have evacuated hundreds of villagers. Families balance belongings, motorcycles, and livestock while moving to safer ground. Muhammad Arsalan, a Rescue 1122 operator, said many residents are hesitant to leave, fearing theft or damage to their property.
“People love their goats and sheep, and sometimes refuse to leave without them,” Arsalan said. In recent days, he has helped more than 1,500 people reach safety.
The floods come after heavy rainfall in the region, which has also impacted Indian Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the challenges of shared river systems and cross-border water management. Pakistani officials say early warning and river management systems could have mitigated some of the damage.
For farmers like Muhammad Amjad, the floods have destroyed crops and livelihoods. “Thirteen of my 15 acres are gone,” he said. “Women and children are evacuated, while men stay behind to protect what’s left.”
Local residents describe a growing sense of vulnerability. “I’ve seen many floods, but they are happening too often now,” said 74-year-old landowner Nawabuddin, recalling major floods in 1988, 2023, and now this year.
Families hope for relief and stability. “We don’t want war, we don’t want excess water. We just want to live,” said Bibi Zubaida, whose newly renovated home and farmland now lie underwater.
