LAHORE: According to NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, approximately 2.4 million residents have been evacuated from flood-affected areas in Punjab and shifted to safety zones. He emphasized that once floodwaters recede, the NDMA will initiate extensive rehabilitation efforts across more than 5,000 villages and agricultural fields.
During a press conference held at the NDMA headquarters, Malik estimated that it could take four to five weeks for the waters to completely drain, after which efforts to restore roads, communication networks, and essential infrastructure will commence. He praised the coordinated response of the provincial government, NGOs, military units, and volunteers, which significantly supported flood relief operations.
Currently, about 150,000 people have been relocated to secure locations, and this number is expected to rise in the coming days, Malik added. Coordination with Sindh’s PDMA, Rescue 1122, and provincial authorities is ongoing, following early warnings and preparedness measures shared weeks earlier.The NDMA chief highlighted that Pakistan is preparing for the final phase of this monsoon season, noting that recent days have seen the floodwaters moving southward with diminishing intensity. He explained that the flow in the rivers is layered, with the first layer hitting Guddu Barrage and the second at Panjnad. Based on current data, officials anticipate stabilization within two to three days.
Malik also mentioned that Prime Minister and Chief of Army Staff are actively documenting the casualties, destruction of homes, livestock losses, and livelihood disruptions since August 25. He reaffirmed that all military and emergency responders are part of the national rescue and relief effort.In addition, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik stated that the monsoon is expected to conclude soon, and floodwaters will be manageable in the coming days. He added that about 932 lives have been lost so far and expressed confidence that authorities are well-prepared to manage the ongoing crisis. Malik highlighted that early warnings had allowed authorities to evacuate up to 2.5 million people, and efforts continue to mitigate further damage.
The minister also reported that floodwaters originating from Punjab are projected to reach the Panjnad barrage within two to three days. He noted that 2,000 tonnes of aid, including supplies from NGOs, have been distributed to affected populations. Military personnel, district officials, and welfare groups are operating tirelessly, risking their safety to assist those impacted.
The flooding began in Sialkot and Narowal before progressing through Shahdara, Lahore, Jhang, and Sargodha, with the second wave now approaching Panjnad. The inflow of floodwaters into the Indus River has increased substantially, causing a rise in water levels at key barrages. Data from the irrigation department shows that in the past 24 hours, the Guddu Barrage has recorded an inflow of 502,861 cusecs and an outflow of 407,970 cusecs, while Sukkur Barrage has an inflow of 440,985 cusecs with an outflow of 412,735 cusecs. The Kotri Barrage reports an inflow of 257,754 cusecs and an outflow of 254,354 cusecs.
Floodwaters have inundated several villages along the riverine regions, prompting authorities to intensify rescue operations and urge residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate promptly. The situation remains under close surveillance, with ongoing efforts to minimize the impact of the floods and protect communities.
