Pakistan is facing a worsening flood emergency as heavy rains and water releases from rivers continue to devastate multiple regions.
Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remain under high alert, with authorities carrying out large-scale evacuation and relief operations.
Punjab Declares Flood Emergency.
The Punjab Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, announced a flood emergency across the province after water levels in the Sutlej and Ravi rivers rose alarmingly.
She confirmed that over 620,000 people have relocated to safer areas, with rescue teams working around the clock to move families from vulnerable locations.
Timely evacuations are ordered in high-risk districts.
The Punjab CM has directed local administrations to ensure timely evacuation from districts at risk of flooding.
Authorities have asked to speed up rescue operations, establish relief camps, and provide clean drinking water and medical support to displaced families.
PIA Suspends Flights at Sialkot Airport.
As the situation worsens, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the suspension of all flights from Sialkot Airport.
The decision comes after floodwaters affected access routes and made flight operations unsafe, disrupting travel for thousands of passengers.
Sindh Activates Flood Emergency Monitoring Cell.
In Sindh, the government confirmed that the Rain and Flood Emergency Monitoring Cell has been made fully operational.
According to a provincial spokesperson, the cell is monitoring real-time updates. Coordinating with rescue teams, and ensuring a quick response to affected areas.
Nasir Hussain Shah, the Provincial Minister of Sindh, stated that the Sindh government is fully prepared to tackle the worsening flood emergency.
Karachi (HRNW)— Nasir Hussain Shah, the Provincial Minister of Sindh, has expressed his determination to address the flood situation.
In an interview with a private TV outlet, Provincial Minister Nasir Hussain Shah stated that all plans are in place and they are ready to handle any emergency.
We have informed the relevant individuals in all districts of Sindh, and the gates of the barrages are in excellent condition.
Nasir Hussain Shah further stated that a rise in the water level would most severely affect the Kachha area. India released water all of a sudden, which is making things more complicated. Climate change is primarily affecting Pakistan.
PDMA Chief Visits Peshawar After Urban Flooding.
The Director General of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) visited Peshawar after heavy rains triggered urban flooding.
Streets and neighbourhoods in several parts of the city inundated, prompting authorities to deploy additional resources for drainage and relief operations.
Internet Shutdown in Punjab’s Flood-Hit Areas.
In a further blow to residents, many flood-hit areas of Punjab are facing an internet shutdown due to damaged infrastructure.
Communication disruptions are making it harder for families to stay in touch with loved ones and access emergency information.
NDMA to Open Tarbela Dam Spillways
To manage rising water levels, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) announced the opening of Tarbela Dam’s spillways today at 7 pm.
Officials have cautioned residents downstream to remain vigilant, as additional inflows may further increase worsening flood risks.
Lahore Faces Rising Waters.
Floodwaters in Lahore have partially submerged several residential buildings in low-lying areas of the city. Rescue teams are using boats to evacuate stranded families. While volunteers are assisting in delivering food and emergency supplies.
National coordination needed.
Officials emphasise that coordination between federal, provincial, and local authorities is crucial to deal with the unfolding crisis.
With the scale of displacement rising, experts warn that Pakistan may face a prolonged humanitarian challenge if weather conditions do not improve.