Pakistan’s Punjab Province Faces Crisis as Heavy Rains Trigger Mass Evacuations

Unprecedented heavy rainfall has created a dire situation in Punjab province, Pakistan, significantly impacting the local population. The authorities have cautioned that the heavy rainfall is expected to continue for the next two days. With the rivers’ water levels rising, approximately 20,000 residents have been relocated to safer grounds from flood-affected areas in the past day. According to the authorities, several villages in Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, and Vehari districts are underwater, necessitating widespread evacuations. These actions were undertaken in areas near the Indus, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, and Jhelum rivers. The most significant threat exists along the Sutlej and Ravi riverbanks, where high alerts have been declared. Relief camps are providing crucial supplies. Citizens are advised to stay away from the rivers and to call helpline 1129 in case of any emergencies. The PDMA anticipates active monsoon conditions through August 27, leading to ongoing emergency operations across multiple districts. The situation in Ganda Singh Wala is particularly concerning, with the Sutlej River breaching its danger level. Thousands are without homes, and the administration is endeavoring to provide basic amenities in the relief camps. Furthermore, a glacial outburst in Gilgit-Baltistan has led to extensive flooding. The flood has displaced over 3,000 people in the Talidas village of the Ghizer district, making it the most significant glacial event since 2010 in Pakistan.