Punjab Flood Crisis: Chenab Overflow Claims 20 Lives, Displaces Thousands

Photo by Nahi Khabar 24/7 – via Personal Collection

Jhang, Punjab: A devastating flood triggered by heavy monsoon rains and the overflowing Chenab River has wreaked havoc across several districts of Punjab, leaving at least 20 people dead and displacing thousands of families.

According to officials, the most affected areas include Jhang, Chiniot, Hafizabad, and Gujranwala, where floodwaters submerged hundreds of villages, damaging homes, crops, and livestock. Rescue agencies reported that more than 50,000 people have been forced to evacuate from low-lying regions.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as residents rushed to safer ground while boats and tractors were used for mass evacuations. “We have lost everything—our homes, cattle, and fields are under water,” said Muhammad Riaz, a farmer from Jhang.

Punjab Rescue 1122 teams, along with the Pakistan Army, have been deployed to assist in evacuation and relief efforts. Temporary shelters and medical camps have been set up, but displaced families continue to face shortages of food, clean drinking water, and medicines.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and directed provincial authorities to intensify rescue operations. She also announced financial assistance for affected families and compensation for damaged properties.

Meteorological officials have warned that water levels in the Chenab River may rise further in the coming days due to continuous inflows from upstream. Authorities have urged people in flood-prone areas to move to safer zones immediately.

The disaster has once again highlighted Punjab’s vulnerability to climate change and poor water management. Experts stressed the urgent need for long-term flood prevention measures, including improved river embankments, early warning systems, and sustainable water reservoirs.