Monsoon Rains Claim 79 Lives Across Pakistan

Torrential monsoon rains and flash floods have claimed at least 79 lives and left 140 injured across Pakistan over the past 12 days, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

According to the latest report, the fatalities include 29 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 24 in Punjab, 15 in Sindh, and 11 in Balochistan.

Among the injured are 57 children, 48 men, and 35 women. The heavy rains have also destroyed 66 houses and partially damaged 123 more, as flash floods battered several regions.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had previously warned of above-normal rainfall this monsoon, raising concerns about urban flooding and landslides, especially in vulnerable districts.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab reported the highest rainfall in Sheikhupura (48mm), followed by Lahore (40mm), with lighter showers in other cities including Gujranwala, Murree, and Faisalabad.

PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia cautioned that the current spell of monsoon rains is expected to continue until July 10.

He urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours, and follow official advisories.

Emergency response teams have been deployed in high-risk areas, and district administrations have been instructed to ensure the availability of relief goods, medical supplies, and drainage equipment.

Authorities have also voiced concerns about the strain on aging urban infrastructure, particularly in major cities like Lahore and Karachi, where drainage systems are often overwhelmed by intense rainfall.