Torrential Rains Kill 33, Injure Over 170 in Punjab; Emergency Declared in Several Cities

LAHORE – Torrential monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across various regions of Punjab, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 33 people and injuries to more than 170 others. In response, authorities have declared a rain emergency in multiple cities, including Rawalpindi and Chakwal.
According to reports, heavy downpours and powerful storms have triggered flash floods in streams and low-lying areas, particularly in Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and surrounding regions. The Director General of Punjab WASA, Tayyab Fareed, has mobilized all field teams to manage the crisis and ensure drainage operations continue at full capacity.
Lahore, like other parts of Punjab, is experiencing active monsoon weather. The city is expected to receive light to heavy rainfall throughout the day, with temperatures ranging between 27°C and 29°C. In anticipation, officials from WASA, LWMC, the Municipal Corporation, and the Housing Department have been placed on high alert.
DG WASA confirmed that all disposal stations are operating at full capacity, and emergency teams are actively deployed in the field. Citizens have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and steer clear of open manholes and electric wires.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that since the onset of this year’s monsoon season, 103 people have died, 393 have been injured, 128 homes have been damaged, and 6 livestock animals have perished. In the past 24 hours alone, 63 fatalities and 290 injuries were recorded due to monsoon-related incidents. Fatalities were reported from Lahore (15), Faisalabad (9), Sahiwal (5), Pakpattan (3), and Okara (9).
The DG PDMA has issued a fresh alert for potential flooding in rivers and streams across the province, warning that the monsoon rains are expected to continue. Citizens are advised to adopt safety precautions, avoid staying in dilapidated or mud houses, and keep children away from electric poles and flood-prone areas.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the imposition of rain emergency across Punjab via her post on the social media platform X. She emphasized that government departments are working diligently and passionately to manage the crisis. She instructed local administrations to inform the public through sirens and loudspeaker announcements and urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and follow safety guidelines.