Flood alert as Ravi swells, 42 rescued from mid-river

SHAKARGARH:

Rescue workers evacuated 42 people stranded after the Ravi River's water level rose suddenly near Chak Qazian and Ikhlaspur villages in Narowal district, officials said on Tuesday.

According to Rescue 1122, the stranded individuals had crossed the river earlier in the day to cultivate paddy fields. However, a sudden increase in the river's flow prevented them from returning safely.

Upon receiving an emergency call, Narowal Rescue 1122 officials dispatched a rescue boat from its Shakargarh station.

The personnel reached the spot and evacuated all 42 stranded people to safety.

The district emergency officer urged the public to avoid crossing rivers or venturing near waterways during the monsoon season, warning that water levels could rise unexpectedly.

He advised citizens to immediately contact the Rescue 1122 helpline in the event of any emergency, adding that all water rescue teams in the district were on high alert and fully prepared to respond in accordance with the district administration's directives.