Webdesk:Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, visited the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) headquarters to review the flood situation in the province. She received a detailed briefing on recent rainfall, flood torrents, and ongoing rescue operations.
Officials informed the Chief Minister that rescue teams from the Army, district administration, and Rescue 1122 responded swiftly. In the three worst-hit districts of Punjab, 1,063 people trapped by floodwaters were safely rescued. On average, it took just 23 minutes to move each person to a safe location.
In Rawalpindi, six people were airlifted by helicopter. Rescue 1122 teams saved another 450 lives. In Chakwal, 27 people were rescued by helicopter, while Rescue 1122 brought 182 to safety.
The situation in Jhelum was also critical. A total of 160 people were airlifted, while Rescue 1122 and the Pakistan Army moved 238 more to secure areas.
Maryam Nawaz praised the hard work and commitment of all rescue teams. She called for the public to be kept informed in real time and stressed the use of technology to improve disaster response.
During her visit, she observed the early warning system and issued firm instructions. “No standing water should be visible,” she said, placing full responsibility on commissioners and deputy commissioners. She ordered a full assessment of crop losses so that farmers can be compensated later.
“I monitored the entire relief operation myself,” she said. “Our focus must remain on helping the public. We stand with the people.”
She also addressed the issue of flood-related deaths. “These deaths occurred due to natural disasters, not government negligence. All departments performed their duties well,” she added.
According to NDMA figures, 178 people have died in rain-related incidents across Pakistan since 26 June. Another 491 people have been injured. Punjab is the most affected province, with 103 deaths. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded 38 fatalities, while Sindh and Balochistan reported 20 and 16 respectively.
In just the past 24 hours, 54 people have died and 227 others were injured in flood-related accidents nationwide. Flash floods remain the leading cause of casualties, followed by building collapses and other rain-linked hazards.
وزیراعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز شریف کی ہدایت پر پنجاب بھر میں 800 کشتیوں کے ساتھ 15 ہزار ریسکیورز ہائی الرٹ! pic.twitter.com/9M151fkxUf
— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) July 18, 2025
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