Punjab rescue authorities have evacuated 40 individuals stranded in the middle of the Sindh River at Sheenka, District Attock, after rising water levels trapped five families on Friday. The six-hour operation was launched amid surging river flow caused by continuous rainfall and the opening of Tarbela Dam's spillways. All trapped individuals were safely transported to secure locations, bringing relief to their families and local residents who had gathered in concern.

Meanwhile, in Gilgit-Baltistan, the ongoing spell of devastating flash floods has resulted in nine fatalities, including two women and two children, while over a dozen others were injured. According to Gilgit-Baltistan government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, the number of missing persons is estimated to be between 10 to 12, as rescue teams continue to battle harsh terrain and treacherous weather to locate survivors.

The natural calamity has destroyed over 500 houses, damaged more than 12 kilometres of road, and swept away 27 bridges and 22 vehicles. Numerous shops, cattle sheds, and thousands of feet of construction timber have also been lost to the raging waters. District Diamer remains the most severely affected area in terms of human and financial loss, said GB Spokesperson Faizullah Faraq.

He further confirmed that over 300 stranded passengers and tourists have already been successfully rescued in coordinated efforts involving the Pakistan Army, GB Scouts, and civil administration. Despite challenging conditions, rescue and relief operations continue, especially the search for missing individuals, he added. Flood-induced landslides and water overflow remain active in several regions, hampering search and relief work. Restoration of water and electricity supplies is also underway.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)