LAHORE: Owing to the proactive measures taken by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, rainwater accumulated in districts affected by heavy monsoon rains was cleared within hours instead of weeks.
According to the report, 17 people lost their lives and 107 others sustained injuries in rain-related incidents during the current monsoon season. About 12 deaths occurred due to the collapse of old and dilapidated buildings, two were caused by lightning strikes and three resulted from electrocution. The injured are being provided with the best possible medical treatment.
The establishment of Water and Sanitation Agencies (WASA) in 41 districts, backed by more than 1,000 machines and operational staff, enabled the swift drainage of rainwater across the province. Residents of Gujrat appreciated the Punjab Chief Minister after rainwater caused by heavy monsoon showers was drained from the city within just three hours.
On the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, rivers, dams and barrages in all relevant cities across Punjab are being monitored round the clock through Safe City cameras in view of the ongoing monsoon season. She also directed the authorities to ensure comprehensive safety arrangements around rain-fed streams, low-lying areas, rivers and canals.
The Chief Minister appealed to the public to avoid visiting or bathing in canals, rivers and seasonal streams during the monsoon and possible flood situation. She further directed district administrations to closely monitor weak and dilapidated buildings and urged citizens to stay away from structures where there is a risk of roof collapse.
In line with the Punjab government’s directions, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has also issued a monsoon flood situation fact sheet. According to the PDMA report, monsoon rainfall was recorded in most districts of Punjab during the last 24 hours. Despite heavy rainfall, rainwater drainage was completed in the shortest possible time.
The highest rainfall was recorded in Gujranwala (250 mm), followed by Sialkot (139 mm), Mandi Bahauddin (138 mm), Narowal (117 mm), Hafizabad (85 mm), Chakwal (70 mm) and Okara (64 mm). The report further stated that Gujrat received 49 mm of rainfall, Jhang 35 mm, Layyah 33 mm and Jhelum 32 mm.
The PDMA reported that water levels currently stand at 57 percent in Tarbela Dam, 38 percent in Mangla Dam and around 30 percent in the Bhakra, Thein and Pong dams.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also directed the authorities to ensure compensation for the losses suffered by the affected families.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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