Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Thursday visited flood-affected areas of Punjab, where they were briefed on the devastation caused by rising waters from Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers. Before departure, Chairman NDMA Lieutenant General Inam Haider briefed the Prime Minister on the overall flood situation across the country.

During the aerial survey, PM Shehbaz was updated on ongoing rescue and relief efforts, particularly in the hardest-hit districts of Narowal and Gujranwala division. PM Shehbaz instructed authorities to take “all necessary steps” to prevent further damage and accelerate relief operations. Both the premier and Punjab CM are set to receive a detailed briefing during their stop in Narowal. 

According to officials, at least 15 people have lost their lives in Gujranwala division alone — including five in Sialkot, four in Gujrat, three in Narowal, two in Hafizabad, and one in Gujranwala. Three others remain missing. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) noted that monsoon-related deaths this year are nearly three times higher compared to last year.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)