Pakistan's Punjab province has been struck by devastating floods after record rainfall, resulting in the evacuation of around 200,000 residents. Rescue efforts have intensified as disaster authorities warned of 'exceptionally high' waters along the Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers, with the army assisting in relief operations.
The floods have been exacerbated by a warning from Indian officials regarding water releases from major dams upstream, which are expected to further impact the already inundated region. Both India and Pakistan have experienced heavy rainfall, with over 800 fatalities reported in Pakistan since the onset of the monsoon season.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has assured that the federal government will aid regional authorities in preventing flood risks, particularly in key urban areas such as Gujarat, Sialkot, and Lahore. In Sialkot, rainfall over the last 24 hours has surpassed the highest recorded levels in 49 years, leaving homes and vehicles submerged.
Local residents, facing immense economic hardships, have expressed reluctance to evacuate, fearing permanent loss of property and livestock. Many have opted to stay behind, despite the dangers. Rescuers are conducting door-to-door evacuations, utilizing boats to evacuate families and their livestock from affected areas. Reports indicate that over 32,000 individuals have already been rescued via these operations, demonstrating the urgent response to this natural disaster.
The floods have been exacerbated by a warning from Indian officials regarding water releases from major dams upstream, which are expected to further impact the already inundated region. Both India and Pakistan have experienced heavy rainfall, with over 800 fatalities reported in Pakistan since the onset of the monsoon season.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has assured that the federal government will aid regional authorities in preventing flood risks, particularly in key urban areas such as Gujarat, Sialkot, and Lahore. In Sialkot, rainfall over the last 24 hours has surpassed the highest recorded levels in 49 years, leaving homes and vehicles submerged.
Local residents, facing immense economic hardships, have expressed reluctance to evacuate, fearing permanent loss of property and livestock. Many have opted to stay behind, despite the dangers. Rescuers are conducting door-to-door evacuations, utilizing boats to evacuate families and their livestock from affected areas. Reports indicate that over 32,000 individuals have already been rescued via these operations, demonstrating the urgent response to this natural disaster.
