Severe flooding has struck Punjab’s border area, causing extensive damage to crops and displacing numerous residents. The local administration, aided by Rangers and rescue personnel, promptly initiated a rescue operation to evacuate stranded individuals, ensuring their safety. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the efforts of the rescue teams and directed comprehensive preparations to address potential flood situations in rivers across the province. The rising water levels, including the water released by India into the Ravi River, have put several areas on high alert. This article provides an overview of the situation and the ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of the floods.
The border area of Punjab has been severely affected by surging river waters, particularly impacting the village of Jalala. Crops have been destroyed, and vast stretches of land have been submerged, resulting in significant losses for the local population. The situation has caused great distress, with many villagers engaged in rice cultivation finding themselves stranded and in need of urgent assistance.
In response to the crisis, the local administration wasted no time in launching a rescue operation. The rescue teams successfully evacuated around 300 individuals, predominantly women and children, to safer locations. This prompt action by the rescue personnel has been crucial in preventing further loss of life and providing much-needed relief to the affected population.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Rangers and rescue personnel involved in the evacuation operation. He highlighted the importance of their swift response, which undoubtedly saved the lives of numerous individuals, especially women and children. The prime minister also issued directives to ensure comprehensive preparations to address potential flood situations in rivers such as Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej. He emphasized the need for raising awareness among the people and making necessary arrangements for their timely and safe evacuation.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as water released by India into the Ravi River is expected to reach Lahore’s Shahdara area within the next 24 hours. This surge in water levels poses a potential threat to the region, necessitating heightened alertness and preparedness. At the Head Khanki, the water level is steadily increasing, with a significant inflow and outflow recorded. Moderate flood situations have also been observed at the Head Marala and Head Balloki. Gujranwala is grappling with moderate levels of inundation as well.
Rescue 1122 teams are actively engaged in rescue operations to mitigate the impact of the flooding. So far, they have successfully rescued 301 individuals, including women and children, in Shakargarh. The efforts have focused on bringing people to safety, including 60 farmers trapped near Chak Jalandhar. Additionally, authorities have evacuated 190 individuals from Chandianwali and Pir Kandiala, ensuring their well-being during this challenging period.
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The water flow in various rivers, barrages, dams, and canals is being closely monitored by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). While moderate floods have been reported in certain areas, the PDMA has assured that the water flow in other rivers, including the Ravi, remains normal. The provincial control room is overseeing the entire situation, enabling swift responses and coordinated efforts to address emerging challenges.
The devastating floods in Punjab’s border area have caused extensive damage, leading to significant losses for the local population. However, the swift response of the local administration, aided by Rangers and rescue personnel, has saved lives and provided much-needed relief. The directives issued by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasize the importance of preparedness and evacuation measures to address potential flood situations in the province. As the situation continues to be monitored closely, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected residents and implementing precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the floods.
