Lahore: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has released comprehensive details of its rescue operations conducted during the recent spell of heavy monsoon rains across the province.

Director General PDMA Punjab, Irfan Ali, confirmed that over 1,000 citizens were safely evacuated from flood-affected areas, particularly in the Potohar region.

DG Irfan Ali stated that a rain emergency was declared in Chakwal, Jhelum, and Rawalpindi due to the unprecedented rainfall. He lauded the collaborative efforts of the district administrations and military personnel who participated actively in the rescue operations.

According to the DG PDMA, over 1,000 citizens trapped by floodwaters in the Potohar region were successfully moved to safer locations. In Jhelum, a total of 398 citizens were rescued, with 174 evacuated by the district administration, 64 by military personnel, and a significant 160 individuals airlifted to safety via helicopter.

In Chakwal, where a cloudburst led to severe flooding, 209 citizens were safely evacuated, including 27 airlifted by helicopter. In Rawalpindi, the district administration alone rescued 450 individuals.

Irfan Ali also issued a cautionary note, announcing that the fourth spell of monsoon rains is expected to commence on July 21. He urged citizens to take all necessary precautionary measures during the upcoming rainy season to ensure their safety.