Heavy monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across Punjab, causing massive destruction to life and property. According to a report by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), 103 people have died while 393 have been injured due to rain-related incidents this season. In the last 24 hours alone, 63 people lost their lives, and 290 others were hurt. Lahore reported the highest fatalities with 15 deaths, followed by Faisalabad and Okara with 9 each, Sahiwal with 5, and Pakpattan with 3.
Most of the deaths occurred due to collapsing old buildings, highlighting the danger of weak structures in continuous rain. The PDMA has urged residents, especially those in poorly maintained homes, to take extra precautions. Director General PDMA stated that, following instructions from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the injured are receiving top-quality treatment and the families of the deceased will receive financial assistance according to government policy.
In addition to human losses, the rains have also damaged 128 houses and claimed the lives of six livestock animals. The situation remains critical as the PDMA warns of further heavy rainfall in several areas of the province. Authorities have also issued flood alerts for various rivers and streams, asking citizens to stay informed and ready for possible evacuations.
In Rawalpindi, heavy downpours have triggered flash floods, especially near Nullah Leh. At Gawalmandi Bridge, water levels rose to 15 feet, nearing the danger mark of 20 feet, while at Katarian Bridge, the level reached 16 feet. Emergency services have been put on high alert, and flood sirens have been sounded to warn residents living in nearby areas.
Chakwal also witnessed extreme weather with 423 millimeters of rain, leading to the death of two people, including a child, due to a house roof collapse. Low-lying areas were flooded, and hundreds of people remain stranded in their homes. A flood emergency has been declared in Chakwal, Kallar Kahar, and Choasidan Shah, with rescue operations ongoing.
Looking ahead, heavy rains are expected in many regions including Kashmir, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, northeast Punjab, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. There is a risk of flash flooding, urban flooding, and landslides in hilly areas like Murree, Galliyat, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Officials have been instructed to stay alert and ensure emergency services remain fully active.