Several districts of Punjab are facing flood emergencies due to continuous heavy rains. A cloudburst was reported in Chakwal, flash flooding hit Jhelum, and urban flooding disrupted life in Rawalpindi.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), a rain emergency has been declared in Rawalpindi, with a local holiday announced. Evacuation efforts are underway in low-lying areas around Nullah Lai. Rescue teams, with the support of the Pakistan Army, are actively conducting operations.
In Chakwal, Jhelum, and Rawalpindi, successful rescue operations ensured no casualties. In Jhelum’s Dhoke Badr village, 40 people stranded by flash floods were rescued safely by the using Pakistan Army helicopters.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stated that 103 people have lost their lives while 393 have been injured so far in this monsoon season.
The PDMA has forecast that a new monsoon system will enter Punjab from July 21, urging residents in flood-hit areas to cooperate with relief teams.
After nearly 16 hours of continuous downpour, heavy rain in Rawalpindi has finally stopped, though light drizzle continues in parts of the city.
The water level in Nullah Lai has begun to recede, easing the flood threat.
According to the Rescue Department, five people trapped in floodwaters in the Morgah area were successfully rescued. District Emergency Officer Sabgatullah said the individuals had taken refuge on their rooftop after rainwater entered their home.
At Katarian, the water level in Nullah Lai has dropped to 13 feet, while at Gawalmandi, it stands at 16.5 feet. An alert remains in place for Gawalmandi, while a pre-alert is active for Katarian.
Authorities have advised residents near Gawalmandi to relocate to safer locations as a precaution. Overall, more than 172 millimeters of rain has been recorded in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
