Monsoon rains claim 84 lives in Punjab

Heavy rains in province lead to 44 livestock deaths, with 100 homes fully destroyed and 145 partially damaged

The ongoing monsoon rains in Punjab have left a grim toll, with 84 people dead, 224 injured, and 245 homes damaged, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).

The fatalities primarily resulted from lightning strikes, electrocution, and the collapse of mud houses and dilapidated buildings, said a PDMA spokesperson.

The heavy rains have also led to the deaths of 44 livestock, and the affected homes include 100 completely destroyed and 145 partially damaged. Financial assistance is being provided to impacted families, and medical treatment is being ensured for the injured.

With more rain forecasted over the next 24 hours, flash flood warnings have been issued for southern Punjab, particularly in Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Bahawalpur divisions.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia noted that the situation is being closely monitored around the clock, with preparations in place for any emergency.

Water levels in key rivers and dams remain a concern. Low-level flooding is reported in the Indus River at Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma, with a medium-level flood at Taunsa. The Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, and Jhelum rivers, however, continue to flow at normal levels.

Mangla Dam is currently at 70% capacity, while Tarbela Dam is nearly full at 99%. Indian dams on the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers have reported water levels at 54% capacity.

The PDMA urges residents to take safety measures during the monsoon season. People are advised to avoid staying in vulnerable buildings and to minimise travel during bad weather.

Citizens should also maintain distance from power lines and poles. For emergency assistance, the PDMA helpline can be reached at 1129.