ISLAMABAD: Flash floods and torrential monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across Pakistan, leading to significant disruptions and property damage, officials said on Monday, as the death toll from rain-related incidents surged to 209 since July 1.
At least 14 people died in various parts of Punjab province during the past 24 hours, a Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) official said.
The ongoing monsoon season, which spans from July through September, has been marked by intense rainfall, although the current spell is less severe compared to the catastrophic floods of 2022. In that year, climate-induced rains led to the swelling of rivers, inundating one-third of the country, resulting in 1,739 deaths and $30 billion in damages.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that the heavy rains are expected to continue throughout the week, with the worst-affected regions including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and southern Sindh provinces.
In Sindh, the city of Sukkur has been particularly hard-hit, with streets submerged under water as authorities work to evacuate residents to safety.
In the north, the Karakoram Highway has been severely impacted by landslides, which have blocked key routes and damaged bridges. Efforts are underway to clear the highway and restore traffic flow, while the government has issued advisories urging tourists to avoid the affected areas.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reported that more than 2,200 homes have been damaged across the country since the beginning of the monsoon season. In response, authorities are distributing medical aid, food, and other necessary supplies to those affected by the floods.
In Lahore, the recent rains have alleviated some of the oppressive mugginess but have also disrupted traffic. Areas including Canal Road, The Mall, Davies Road, and Lakshmi Chowk have experienced localized flooding.
Rain-related incidents in Punjab have led to casualties, including the death of three laborers when a roof collapse occurred in Faisalabad. The injured laborer is currently receiving treatment at Allied Hospital. Overall, Punjab has reported 84 deaths and 224 injuries from rain-related accidents.
Continuous rains have led to disruptions in Koh-e-Suleman and low-level floods in mountainous regions. A 20-foot sinkhole has developed in Uch canal, Ahmedpur East. Water levels in Head Trimmu are rising due to persistent rains.
Sukkur has faced record-breaking rainfall of 290 millimeters, flooding low-lying areas and breaking a 77-year-old record. Larkana, Qaziabad, and Jacobabad have also experienced significant rainfall, causing widespread damage. Karachi’s extended downpours have left residents struggling with rainwater.
Landslides in Gojal, Hunza, Astore, and Ghizer have destroyed 20 houses and stranded tourists. Several roads remain closed due to heavy rains and resultant flooding.
National Highway N-40 has been blocked for two days due to intense rainfall. Districts including Kohlu, Awaran, and Bolan have seen severe showers, inundating low-lying areas and severely impacting daily life.
