Devastating rain and floods in Pakistan have caused immense destruction. Since June, over 200 people have died as a result of collapsing houses, drowning, and flooding, severely impacting daily life.
Pakistan Monsoon: This year's monsoon rains have proven catastrophic in Pakistan. Heavy rainfall, which began in late June, has claimed the lives of over 200 people so far. Among the deceased are 100 children. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan, the highest number of deaths have occurred in the Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh regions.
Region-wise Death Toll
According to the NDMA report, Punjab has recorded 123 deaths, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 40, and Sindh 21. Additionally, Balochistan has reported 16 deaths, Islamabad 1, and Pakistan-administered Kashmir 1.
House Collapses and Floods Cause Fatalities
According to government data, a total of 118 people died due to house collapses, while 30 were killed by flash floods. Several other deaths were attributed to drowning, lightning strikes, and landslides.
Severe Conditions in Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi has been severely affected by flash floods, with houses, roads, and markets submerged. Water levels rose so high that in many neighborhoods, the water reached above the rooftops. Local residents have been forced to leave their homes and move to safer locations.
Over 560 Injured, Many Children
Due to the rains and floods, over 560 people have been injured so far, including 182 children. The injured are receiving treatment in various hospitals. The NDMA is engaged in relief and rescue operations, but continuous rainfall is hindering these efforts.
Severe Damage in Faisalabad
In Faisalabad, 11 people have died and 60 have been injured in just two days. The majority of deaths here were due to house collapses. The local administration has declared a state of emergency, converting schools and public places into temporary relief camps.
Roads Washed Away in Chakwal
The situation remains dire in the Chakwal region as well. Heavy rainfall has caused at least 32 roads to be washed away, completely disrupting transportation. Relief teams are facing significant difficulties in reaching remote areas.
According to a recent United Nations (UN) report, there is a risk of glacial lake outburst floods in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan regions of Pakistan. If this occurs, the flood situation could become even more severe.
NDMA Issues Advisory
The NDMA has advised all citizens to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel. The administration has placed all local bodies on alert and is expediting the arrangement of relief supplies. Local police, fire brigade, and army personnel are also assisting in relief and rescue operations. People stranded in the affected areas are being transported to safe locations with the help of boats and helicopters.
