Punjab is once again facing nature’s usual fury in the monsoon, which is not unusual. What is, however, concerning is that more than 60 people died due to heavy rains and flooding across the province.
In response, the government has declared a rain emergency in many areas and imposed Section 144 to ban risky activities like swimming or bathing in floodwater and canals.
The rainfall has been intense, especially in Chakwal, which saw 400mm of rain in just 10 hours. Streets turned into rivers, houses collapsed, and people were left stranded. In Rawalpindi, water levels in Leh Nullah rose so high that flood alerts were issued, and the army had to rescue families using helicopters.
The situation is equally worrying in Jhelum, Gujrat, Mandi Bahauddin, and other districts. Rescue teams, including over 15,000 personnel and hundreds of boats, are working day and night to save lives.
But despite their efforts, many people remain at risk. A 10-year-old boy in Mandi Bahauddin drowned while playing in the rainwater. Others were injured by collapsing roofs or electric shocks.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has declared rain emergency to protect lives. Emergency demands that officials remained alerted. Authorities are also warning people to stay indoors, avoid power lines, and keep away from manholes and flooded roads.
The National Disaster Management Authority has said more rain is expected in the coming days. Rivers and dams are already filling up. Poor drainage, unsafe buildings, and lack of public awareness make these rains even more deadly.
Every year, the monsoon brings both hope and heartbreak. This time, it has poured too much water. The government and public must work together to stay safe and help those in danger. Let us not ignore the warnings that the danger still lingers.
