Following a bout of intense pre-monsoon showers, various parts of Punjab have been severely affected, with 13 individuals reported dead, several injured, and notable damage to infrastructure and crops, according to a Monday report from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).
Commencing last night, the unrelenting rainfall has resulted in widespread flooding, particularly in areas that sit at a lower elevation. This has not only led to electricity failures but has also impeded transportation for the residents.
Additionally, the heavy rain caused the structural failure of several buildings as roofs and walls collapsed, exacerbating the hazardous conditions.
As per the PDMA’s report, there have been 15 lightning strikes and structural collapses. These unfortunate incidents have led to the loss of 13 lives and caused injuries to 23 people.
The PDMA’s director general, Imran Qureshi, ensured the situation was vigilantly supervised via the provincial control room. This is to guarantee swift responses and aid to those impacted by the harsh weather conditions.
The Meteorological Office reports that Lahore has experienced the highest rainfall over the past day, with Lakshmi Chowk recording a significant 260mm, closely followed by the Airport area, which saw 250mm.
Ghufran Ahmad, the Managing Director of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), ensured the public that efforts to manage the water situation were underway. He confirmed that all essential machinery for water drainage in the impacted areas is operational and in active use.
The heavy rainfall has led to significant disruptions in the city’s traffic systems, with main roads suffering from water accumulation.
Ferozepur Road is among the most severely affected, with countless vehicles and motorcycles left stranded. Nearby Barkat Market, several vehicles were submerged in the rising water levels. The underpass at Kalma Chowk has been inundated with water standing 4 to 5 feet high.
