The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Friday confirmed the death of 54 people in Punjab over the past 24 hours, as torrential rains in various cities of the province disrupted life and prompted calls for caution during the ongoing monsoon season.
In its latest situation report, the NDMA has said that of the 54 people who perished in Punjab—20 men, 12 women and 22 children—five drowned, three electrocuted, and 46 had buildings collapse on them. It said the rain-related incidents also injured 227 people across the province.
Nationwide, the death toll from the current monsoon season that began on June 26 has climbed to 178, with 491 others injured.
The worst of the monsoon rains on Thursday saw parts of Rawalpindi, Islamabad and Chakwal completely submerged, sweeping away vehicles. As the water levels rose, authorities also issued evacuation warnings, with the Rawalpindi administration declaring a public holiday and urging people to remain at home. In Chakwal, which saw 450mm of rain, the armed forces bolstered authorities’ efforts to rescue trapped citizens, several of whom were stranded on the roofs of their homes. The historic Katas Raj temple, located in the district, was also flooded.
The Punjab government has imposed a rain emergency in multiple districts amidst the downpours, while flood alerts have been issued for Jhelum and Sialkot and a flood emergency declared in Chakwal. Responding to the crisis, the provincial government has imposed Section 144 across the province, banning swimming in rivers, ponds and dams until Aug. 30. The NDMA has similarly advised residents of vulnerable areas to retain stocks of food, water, and essential medicines for 3-5 days.
Amidst the rising waters, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the National Emergency Operation Center for a briefing on the situation. Officials informed him that the organization has recorded 30-40% more rainfall than normal this year.
A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office said the premier had expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, noting overall damages were lower than last year due to pre-emptive measures. He expressed satisfaction over the active response of province, noting cloudbursts had created extraordinary conditions.
He pledged full federal support to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial governments to ensure integrated planning and early response measures. “This year’s experience highlights the importance of a coordinated response. Federal and provincial governments must work together to ensure readiness,” he added.
Despite minimal emissions, Pakistan remains one of world’s most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change. Since 2022, when monsoons submerged a third of the country and killed 1,700 people, it has suffered multiple extreme weather events.