The Punjab Floods: A Devastating Reality for Rural Communities
A severe flood warning has been issued by the Multan District Administration, with at least 22 villages in the district’s Mouzas of Multan Saddar and Shujaabad being partially submerged under three to four feet of water. The flooding is attributed to heavy rainfall from the River Chenab.
According to a recent report compiled by assistant commissioners, the district has 545 Mouzas, out of which 138 are flood-prone. As a result, residents have been forced to relocate their homes and livestock to safer areas due to the advancing floodwaters.
The flooding in Multan Saddar’s Abu Hatta, Vellan, Dhello, and Zaman Pur villages is particularly severe, with water levels receding as the situation is being closely monitored by authorities. Similarly, Shujaabad’s Soman, Pounta, Tahir Pur, Marha, Agar Khawani, Dhundoon, Wanis, Ripri, Manik Wali, Jung Wala, Narol, Wacha Sandila, Shahpur Lamma, Bait Kaitch Janubi, Shehni Shumali, and Shehni Janubi villages have also been affected.
The largest number of affected villages is in Jalalpur Pirwala, where the following areas are inundated: Ripri, Manik Wali, Jung Wala, Narol, Wacha Sandila, Shahpur Lamma, Bait Kaitch Janubi, Shehni Shumali, and Shehni Janubi.
Civil society activist Majid Zahoor expressed concern over the impact of the flood on local communities. “Two union councils (UCs) in Tehsil Jalalpur were submerged,” he said. “All zamindara bunds constructed by locals to stop water from entering crops and houses have been washed away.”
Multan Deputy Commissioner Dr Faisal Saleem stated that while only minor inundation has occurred in a few riverine settlements, residents living along the Chenab belt should remain vigilant and follow official instructions.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warned of increased flows in eastern rivers and adjoining nullahs due to forecast rainfall in upper catchment areas. The authority also cautioned about possible urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents are advised to remain cautious and follow official instructions. Flood relief camps have been established in vulnerable areas where essential facilities and medicines are being provided.
Source: Dawn
Based on reporting from Dawn.
