Pakistan monsoon crisis: 907 dead, thousands displaced as floods wreak havoc

Islamabad: The devastating monsoon season has claimed at least 907 lives across Pakistan, with thousands displaced and widespread destruction reported in several provinces, according to the latest report by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

The NDMA’s report paints a grim picture of the toll the extreme weather has taken across the country, with 1,044 people injured, thousands of homes damaged, and over 6,000 livestock perished.

Provincial Breakdown of Casualties:

The recent provincial breakdown of casualties reveals a grim picture across various regions. In Punjab, there were 223 deaths and 654 injuries, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) suffered the highest death toll with 502 fatalities and 218 injuries. Sindh reported 58 deaths and 78 injured, whereas Balochistan had 26 deaths and 5 injuries. In the northern areas, Gilgit-Baltistan recorded 41 deaths and 52 injuries, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir reported 38 deaths. The federal capital, Islamabad, saw 9 fatalities.

In addition to human casualties, the report confirmed that 7,848 homes have been either partially or completely destroyed. Entire communities have been cut off or forced to evacuate as the floodwaters continue to rise.

Southern Punjab Under Threat: NDMA Issues Weather Alert:

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a severe weather alert for Southern Punjab, warning of thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall expected over the next 24 to 48 hours. The areas most at risk include Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Ahmedpur, Liaqatpur, Zahir Pir, Rajanpur, Khanpur, Muzaffargarh, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, and Sadiqabad. Residents in these regions are advised to take necessary precautions and stay updated with the latest weather advisories.

The alert also highlights the risk of flash floods in hill torrents and landslides in vulnerable mountainous regions.

Indus River Swells: Flood Wave Submerges Villages in Thatta:

In Thatta and Sujawal, a flood wave of 231,763 cusecs is currently passing through the Thatta-Sujawal Bridge on the Indus River, submerging five villages and inundating riverine (katcha) areas. The Irrigation Department is carrying out emergency repair work on embankments, particularly the Surjani, Manarki, and Kot Alamo embankments, which are under critical threat.

Flood-affected families in Thatta have been forced to migrate without government assistance, raising concerns about the humanitarian response.

Sutlej River in Kasur: Worst Flood Since 1988:

In Kasur, the Sutlej River is experiencing its most severe flooding since 1988, leading to widespread devastation across the region.

Hundreds of mud houses have been submerged, with villages such as Dhoop Sari and Sahjra completely inundated. Homes are now under several feet of water, forcing families to take shelter on rooftops in desperate conditions. Many have lost their belongings, which have been severely damaged or destroyed.

The situation is further worsened as dozens of village routes have been cut off, isolating entire communities and making rescue and relief efforts increasingly difficult.

Residents in affected areas are struggling to protect their homes and evacuate essentials, as water continues to rise. Many families are reportedly homeless and helpless, with no immediate relief in sight.

Urgent Need for Relief and Rehabilitation:

The NDMA has called for emergency preparedness and coordinated relief efforts, as Pakistan braces for continued monsoon rains and potential flooding in the coming days. Humanitarian organizations and provincial governments have been urged to mobilize resources to provide shelter, food, medical aid, and reconstruction support.