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LAHORE, Jul 18 (APP):Following torrential monsoon rains in the Pothohar region, hundreds of citizens trapped in floodwaters were rescued in large-scale operations carried out by the district administrations and Pakistan Army personnel.
The emergency response was launched after a rain emergency was imposed in Chakwal, Jhelum, and Rawalpindi due to unusually high rainfall.
According to Director General of the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Irfan Ali Kathia, in a statement issued here on Friday, more than 1,000 people were safely evacuated to secure locations in the affected areas. In Jhelum alone, 398 citizens were rescued β 174 by the district administration and 64 by Pakistan Army personnel, while 160 people were airlifted by helicopter to safe zones.
In Chakwal, 209 citizens affected by a sudden cloudburst were relocated to safe places. Of these, 182 were rescued by local authorities and 27 by helicopter. In Rawalpindi, 450 individuals were saved from rising water levels, including six who were airlifted from the flood-prone Nala Lai area.
The DG PDMA emphasized that, on the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, timely coordination among PDMA, the army, and district officials ensured that no casualties occurred despite the intensity of the floods.
Authorities have warned that monsoon rains this year are expected to be heavier than normal, with the fourth spell beginning on July 21. Citizens are urged to stay alert, take necessary precautions, and remain in safe locations during adverse weather.
The PDMA reaffirmed its commitment to utilize all available resources to safeguard lives and property throughout the monsoon season.