Pakistan Floods Force Evacuation Of 25,000 In Punjab Province

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

Rescuers supported by troops evacuated more than 25,000 people from Jalalpur Pirwala in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province overnight. Rising rivers threatened to flood the city, prompting authorities to act quickly. The emergency operation began late Sunday and continued through the night. By Monday morning, tens of thousands of residents from high-risk areas had been moved to safer locations, reducing the immediate threat to human life.

Flood-Related Tragedy Prompts Urgent Action

The evacuation came just two days after a rescue boat capsized near the outskirts of Jalalpur Pirwala, resulting in five deaths. Fifteen other people were rescued after the boat overturned on Saturday. This incident highlighted the urgent need for large-scale evacuations and strengthened efforts to prevent further loss of life as water levels continued to rise.

Residents Move To Higher Ground

Ghulam Shabir, a 50-year-old construction worker, described leaving his village for higher ground after floodwater entered his home and surrounding farmland. Many families faced similar situations, with homes inundated and access to basic services cut off. Residents appealed to the government to speed up rescue operations as many people were still stranded in nearby villages. The flooding disrupted daily life and created uncertainty for thousands of households.

Government Mobilises Resources

The Pakistani government deployed hundreds of boats and thousands of rescuers and volunteers to help evacuate residents in flood-affected districts. Emergency teams worked tirelessly through the night and into the morning to reach isolated areas. Authorities coordinated with local communities and volunteer groups to ensure that the most vulnerable were prioritised, including the elderly, children, and people with disabilities.

Volunteers Join Rescue Efforts

The Pakistan Markazi Muslim League, a volunteer group known for assisting during natural disasters, played a significant role in the evacuations. Members of the group were stationed in multiple locations to provide immediate aid. Taha Muneeb, the group’s spokesman, reported that floodwaters had already submerged all villages around Jalalpur Pirwala and were starting to enter the city itself. Volunteers helped with transportation, medical assistance, and basic food and water supplies for stranded families.

Residents Stranded On Rooftops And Trees

Many residents refused to leave their homes initially, preferring to stay on rooftops rather than wait on roadside evacuation points. Survivors described being stranded on branches of trees, half-submerged in floodwaters, as rescue teams worked to reach them. Taj Din, one of the evacuees rescued by boat, said he witnessed dozens of people clinging to trees for safety. The dangerous conditions illustrated the severity of the flooding and the need for rapid response measures.

Use Of Technology In Rescue Operations

The Punjab government used thermal imaging drones to locate people trapped in flooded areas. These drones helped rescuers identify stranded residents quickly, allowing for efficient evacuation by boat. Spokesperson Uzma Bukhari confirmed that authorities were doing everything possible to manage the situation and prevent casualties. The use of modern technology, including drones and communication systems, proved critical in monitoring the flooding and coordinating rescue efforts.

International Support Arrives

Although Pakistan had not requested international aid, the Saudi government provided 10,000 food packages and 10,000 shelter kits for flood-affected families in Punjab. The delivery came just two days after the United States sent emergency supplies to assist flood victims. These contributions demonstrate international solidarity in times of disaster and provide essential support for displaced residents who may otherwise face shortages of food and shelter.

Widespread Impact Across Punjab

Floods in Punjab have affected more than 4.1 million people across 4,100 villages in 25 districts. Since August 26, at least 56 flood-related deaths have been reported, while over 2 million people have been moved to safer areas. Displaced families are being provided with tents, food, and other essential supplies. The government is working closely with local authorities, military personnel, and police to ensure that evacuation and relief efforts continue efficiently.

Mosques Aid Evacuation Efforts

In many areas, mosques broadcast evacuation announcements, guiding residents to safe zones. People scrambled onto vehicles and boats amid heavy rainfall as authorities tried to clear high-risk areas. Public announcements, community coordination, and the involvement of religious institutions played a significant role in ensuring residents were informed and able to respond quickly to rising floodwaters.

Large-Scale Rescue Operation Ongoing

The rescue operation in Punjab is one of the largest the province has seen in recent years. Floodwaters have risen after India released water from its dams, causing surges in the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers. Heavy monsoon rains have further intensified flooding, making rescue operations more complex. Helicopters, boats, and ground teams are working simultaneously to reach affected areas, demonstrating a coordinated and large-scale response to the disaster.

Chief Minister Monitoring Efforts

Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is personally monitoring the evacuation operations from a central control room. She has directed local authorities and disaster management teams to prioritise safety and ensure quick assistance to stranded residents. The chief minister’s oversight helps maintain accountability and ensures that resources are being deployed effectively to protect human life.

Floods Since June Cause Severe Damage

Since late June, monsoon flooding has killed more than 900 people across Pakistan, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Floodwaters continue to affect millions, with many families still living in temporary shelters or with relatives. Diplomatic channels have been used to notify Pakistan about potential cross-border flooding from India, helping authorities prepare for additional water surges.

Millions Displaced Across Punjab

Flooding has displaced over 2 million people across Punjab since August 23. While around 60,000 people live in official relief camps, most have sought shelter with relatives or set up makeshift camps along riverbanks. Authorities are providing food, clean water, and temporary shelters to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected. Relief teams continue to assess the needs of displaced families to offer timely assistance.

Floods Threaten Sindh Province

Evacuations are also underway in southern Sindh province, where rising water from the Indus River threatens communities. More than 100,000 people have been relocated from vulnerable settlements, and authorities are closely monitoring water levels. Flood management efforts in Sindh mirror those in Punjab, including the deployment of boats, helicopters, and rescue personnel to ensure safety.

Ongoing Challenges And Relief Efforts

The floods in Pakistan have created a severe humanitarian crisis, affecting millions and causing widespread damage to homes, farmland, and infrastructure. The ongoing rescue and relief operations in Punjab and Sindh are critical for saving lives and providing basic needs to displaced families. With support from volunteers, the army, police, and international partners, authorities continue to manage the disaster, demonstrating the importance of coordination, planning, and community involvement in responding to natural calamities.

Pakistan flood evacuation, Punjab rescue operations, Monsoon flood impact