WEBDESK: Punjab Chief Minister CM Maryam Nawaz has declared a rain emergency in several areas of the province following days of intense rainfall and the risk of flooding.
In a social media post, she confirmed that government departments are working with full effort and coordination to manage the crisis. The Chief Minister stated that a rain emergency has been officially enforced in flood-prone districts to help authorities respond quickly and protect citizens.
She directed local administrations to alert the public through sirens and loudspeaker announcements, urging people to follow safety instructions and cooperate with emergency teams. “This cooperation is crucial to avoid loss of life and property,” she said. The Chief Minister further emphasised that all government resources are being mobilised under the rain emergency plan.
Hospitals have been put on high alert. Field hospitals and medical teams are being sent to affected areas. Maryam Nawaz also ordered police to increase patrols and support rescue operations. She assured the public that the rain emergency will remain in place as long as the threat continues.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called an emergency meeting to review the worsening flood situation in Rawalpindi, where water in Nullah Lai has risen to dangerous levels. Residents near the stream have been advised to relocate to safer areas.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), 63 people have died and 290 have been injured across Punjab in the past 24 hours due to rain-related incidents.
Due to ongoing heavy rainfall and worsening weather conditions, the district administration has declared a one day public holiday in Rawalpindi.
Deputy Commissioner Hassan Cheema issued an official notification announcing the holiday in Rawalpindi. The notice urged citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
The continuous rain has caused flood-like conditions in several low-lying areas of the city. Streets and roads are submerged, and storm drains are overflowing.
Read more: Holiday in Rawalpindi declared amid heavy rain, flood risk
The Pakistan Army rescue operations are also launched to assist affected communities in Jhelum and Rawalpindi where heavy monsoon rains have triggered severe flooding.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called an urgent meeting to review the situation. He has asked the Chief Commissioner of Rawalpindi and the Managing Director of WASA to provide a detailed report. The meeting will assess the damage and evaluate safety measures already in place.
Read more: PM Shehbaz calls emergency meeting after flood alarms in Rawalpindi
