A powerful spell of monsoon rains has caused widespread destruction across Punjab, resulting in at least seven fatalities, 14 injuries, and extensive power outages in multiple cities.
Lahore, the provincial capital, experienced relentless downpours over the past 24 hours, leading to several accidents and damage to infrastructure. According to rescue officials, two individuals died in separate rain-related incidents in the city.
The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) reported that 210 power feeders tripped in different parts of the city, leaving many neighbourhoods without electricity. Officials stated that repair work would commence once weather conditions improved to ensure the safety of field crews.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) provided rainfall data for several areas in Lahore:
- GMA Town (Gulberg): 98mm
- Madina Town: 91mm
- Nishtar Town: 50mm
- Airport area: 24mm
- Other parts of Lahore: 15mm
Chunian:
In Talwandi Kot Piran, Chunian, heavy rains caused a house roof to collapse, tragically killing two young sisters—8-year-old Arfa and 4-year-old Farwa. Their bodies were retrieved and shifted to a local hospital by rescue workers.
Okara:
A five-year-old girl lost her life when the roof of her home gave way during the heavy downpour. Emergency teams responded quickly, but were unable to save the child.
Jhelum (Sohawa):
A man drowned in a swollen stormwater drain in Sohawa, Jhelum district. His body was recovered shortly after the incident, though his identity remains unknown.
Bahawalnagar:
In Bole Wali Kat, Bahawalnagar, continuous rainfall led to the collapse of a mud house roof, killing a four-year-old child. Rescue teams extracted the body from the rubble.
Overall Casualties in Punjab:
Rain-related incidents have claimed at least seven lives across the province:
- 2 in Lahore
- 2 in Chunian
- 1 in Okara
- 1 in Jhelum (Sohawa)
- 1 in Bahawalnagar
According to PDMA, the current monsoon system is expected to persist until July 1. Authorities have urged local administrations to remain alert and prepared, especially in vulnerable regions.
