Record rainfall submerges Sialkot

Punjab Minister for Local Government Mian Zeeshan Rafique visited the low-lying areas of Sialkot and reviewed the relief measures being carried out in the wake of record-breaking rainfall that submerged parts of the city.

Speaking to the media at Rangpura Chowk, one of the worst-affected localities, the minister said Sialkot had witnessed unprecedented rainfall in its history, with 405 millimetres recorded in a single day followed by another 110 millimetres during the night.

"This created an emergency situation, but the government's top priority is to ensure the safety and relief of citizens," he said.

The minister assured that residents in flood-hit areas were being shifted to safe locations and that the provincial government would compensate those who suffered losses.

"Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif always stands with the people of Punjab in difficult times," he said, adding that there would be no shortcomings in the government's response to the crisis.

Rafique said a control room established at the Deputy Commissioner's Office was functioning round-the-clock to address public complaints. He added that drainage and relief operations would continue until the water flow in Nullah Aik normalized.

He further stated that the district administration, WASA, and Municipal Corporation teams were in the field, distributing clean drinking water and basic necessities.

"Government departments have been working non-stop for the past 48 hours, and I am personally monitoring the operations to ensure no negligence occurs," the minister said.