A collaborative rescue operation spearheaded by the Punjab Rangers and Rescue 1122 teams was launched in Shakargarh, Punjab, following India’s release of excessive water into the River Ravi. The operation successfully evacuated 223 stranded residents, predominantly women and children, to safer locations. The village of Jalala in Shakargarh also suffered significant crop damage due to the floods. The situation has put neighbouring districts on alert, with relief camps established to assist those affected. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is monitoring the situation, and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued advisories to manage high water flows.
Responding to the flash floods caused by India’s water release, Punjab Rangers and Rescue 1122 teams collaborated on a rescue operation in Shakargarh. Their timely intervention ensured the safe evacuation of 223 residents, primarily women and children, who were stranded amidst rising water levels in the River Ravi. These individuals were promptly relocated to safer locations while the Punjab Rangers’ rescue team continued to monitor and address the unfolding situation in the border area.
The floods originating from India have caused significant damage to crops in the border village of Jalala, submerging the cultivated fields of local paddy farmers. The release of approximately 185,000 cusecs of water by India into the River Ravi has heightened concerns. The excessive water is expected to reach Lahore via Shahdara within the next 48 hours, raising the potential for flooding in the area. Moderate flooding has already been reported in the Chenab River at Marala and Shakargarh, as well as in Nullah Baeen, while the water flow in other rivers, including the Ravi, remains normal.
The local administration is on high alert in districts adjacent to the River Ravi and Chenab. Relief camps have been set up in various districts to provide assistance to affected individuals. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is closely monitoring the water flow in rivers, barrages, dams, and canals. The PDMA has reported moderate flooding in Chenab at Marala and in Shakargarh, with low-level flooding observed in Khanki and Kadirabad. The overall situation in Punjab is being continuously monitored from the provincial control room to ensure swift responses and coordinated efforts.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued updates on the flood situation, urging caution in low-lying areas and the implementation of water regulation contingencies. The NDMA highlights the importance of monitoring the developing situation, sharing updates with local communities and relevant authorities, and placing line departments, Rescue 1122, and armed forces on standby for immediate response to any untoward situation. Contingency plans are being executed to regulate water through link canals to manage high flows.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif commended the Punjab Rangers and Rescue 1122 personnel for their timely evacuation and assistance of those affected in Shakargarh. He expressed gratitude for the lives saved, including dozens of women and children, and paid tribute to their dedication. The prime minister has directed rescue organizations to make foolproof arrangements to tackle potential flood situations in the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers. He has also emphasized the importance of raising awareness among people in the potentially affected areas and preparing for their timely and safe evacuation.
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The collaborative rescue operation undertaken by the Punjab Rangers and Rescue 1122 teams in Shakargarh showcases the swift response and dedication of Pakistan’s rescue personnel in the face of natural disasters. The evacuation of stranded residents, particularly women and children, has undoubtedly saved lives and provided essential assistance to those affected by the flash floods. With concerns about crop damage and the rising water levels in various rivers, Punjab remains on alert, with relief camps established and monitoring efforts in place. The directives from Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif emphasize the need for comprehensive preparations, awareness, and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the population in the face of potential flood situations.
