Pakistan Evacuates Thousands as India Releases Water from Dams
In a dramatic move, Pakistan has sprung into action, evacuating tens of thousands of people to safer areas as a result of India’s decision to release water from overflowing dams and swollen rivers into low-lying border regions, officials revealed on Tuesday.
Gearing Up for Potential Disaster
The alert came after New Delhi reached out to Islamabad, warning of possible cross-border flooding, marking a rare moment of communication between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The Pakistan National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) swiftly issued an alert to its Punjabi counterparts about the rising Sutlej River and the looming threat of flooding, prompting evacuations from various districts in the eastern Punjab province.
Swift Response and Evacuation Efforts
Rescuers have been working tirelessly, successfully evacuating over 14,000 individuals from Kasur district in Punjab province, and relocating more than 89,000 others to safer grounds from Bahawalnagar, near the Indian border.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Authorities are urging residents to steer clear of rivers, streams, and low-lying areas, to avoid unnecessary travel, and to remain vigilant by following alerts disseminated through various media channels, mobile phones, and the NDMA’s disaster alert app.
Monsoon Mayhem Continues
The urgent flood alert and evacuation operation by Pakistan come in the midst of relentless monsoon rains wreaking havoc in both countries. Pakistan’s northwest recently bore the brunt of flash floods in Buner district, resulting in the tragic loss of over 300 lives.
Climate Change Culprit
Experts attribute the intensity of this year’s rainfall to climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and mitigation measures in the face of escalating weather patterns.
This year’s heavy rains have sparked concerns of a repeat of the catastrophic 2022 deluge that submerged a third of the country and claimed the lives of 1,739 individuals. — Euronews
