Lahore (Web Desk): The Punjab government has sought assistance from the army in six districts as the province battles a severe flooding crisis caused by ongoing heavy rains and the release of water from two Indian dams. This dual impact has led to large-scale inundation, displacing residents and damaging agricultural lands across multiple areas.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the situation worsened significantly after India opened all the floodgates of the Thein Dam on the Ravi River. The release of approximately 250,000 cusecs of water at Kot Nainan caused a surge in river levels, triggering widespread flooding.
The overflow has particularly affected districts such as Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Narowal, and Okara, where farmland and populated areas have been submerged under floodwaters.
Local administrations in the affected areas, overwhelmed by the scale of the disaster, formally requested the deployment of army units to support existing rescue operations.
Although civil emergency services like Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and police are already engaged in relief work, the extent of the flooding has exceeded their operational capacity.
In response, the Punjab Home Department has approached the Ministry of Interior to secure formal approval for military deployment.
The number of troops and the scope of their involvement will be decided in consultation with district-level authorities based on the evolving needs of each area. In addition to manpower, the army may also deploy helicopters and other logistical support to enhance the response.
The military’s role will likely involve the evacuation of stranded individuals, delivery of aid supplies, reinforcement of flood protection barriers, and ensuring access to remote or cut-off areas.
Narowal, one of the hardest-hit districts, has made an urgent plea for additional support as floodwaters continue to spread, intensifying the humanitarian challenge.
Authorities at both provincial and district levels are closely monitoring the developing situation, coordinating relief efforts across departments to minimize further loss of life and property.
The combined pressure from the Ravi River and the rising levels of the Dek Nullah has added to the strain on infrastructure and emergency resources, making swift action critical in the coming days.