How Many Lives Have the Monsoon Rains in Pakistan Claimed?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Death toll: 279
- Injuries: 676
- Rescue operations: 148
- Most affected region: Punjab
- Flood alerts issued
Islamabad, July 25 (NationPress) – As relentless rains continue to cause turmoil, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan has confirmed that the total number of fatalities since the beginning of the monsoon season has tragically reached 279.
The NDMA has urged provincial governments to remain vigilant and prepared for potential emergencies.
Moreover, reports indicate that 676 individuals have been injured across the nation due to rain-related incidents, according to Pakistan’s prominent newspaper, The Express Tribune.
Among the provinces, Punjab has suffered the most, with the highest casualty figures reported: 151 deaths and 535 injuries. Following Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has recorded 64 deaths and 80 injuries, while Sindh reports 25 deaths and 40 injuries up to now.
To date, 148 rescue operations have been executed, primarily concentrated in Punjab, with 128 missions conducted in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh.
The NDMA has also issued flood alerts in numerous areas, including regions in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir such as Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Shigar, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh.
Warnings for possible floods and landslides have been issued, especially in elevated regions, due to the heavy rains.
Furthermore, rainfall combined with glacial melt may lead to increased flow in the Chitral River within the Chitral Valley, impacting areas such as Buni and Reshun, as detailed by the NDMA.
Authorities have been instructed to prepare thoroughly, ensuring personnel, rescue teams, and machinery are ready to respond to any emergencies that may arise.
Local administrations and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities have been advised to remain alert and implement necessary preventive actions.