As torrential rains continue to batter the country, Pakistan braces for a fresh monsoon spell beginning July 28, adding to an already dire situation. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the death toll from rain-related incidents rose by six in the last 24 hours, bringing the nationwide fatality count to 271 since June 26. Over 655 individuals have sustained injuries due to the ongoing floods and rain-related disasters.
The latest NDMA report confirms that four deaths occurred in Balochistan and two in Punjab due to incidents such as roof collapses, flash floods, and drowning. These tragic occurrences have become a daily reality as weather patterns grow more erratic and extreme.
In southern Punjab, the Pakistan monsoon spell has caused the River Indus to swell to dangerous levels. At Taunsa Barrage, water flow exceeded 430,000 cusecs, submerging eight riverside villages near Ghazi Ghat and over 20 additional settlements in Taunsa Sharif. Rescue teams are grappling with accessibility challenges, as entire communities face rising waters and damaged infrastructure.
To handle the crisis, the local administration has established over 25 flood relief camps, primarily in government school buildings, across Taunsa and Kot Chutta tehsils. The camps are offering basic necessities, but access remains difficult due to submerged roadways and poor communication in flooded zones.
Meanwhile, rain-related incidents in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) have claimed 10 lives so far. Seven of the fatalities were recorded in Babusar, while two more were reported in Thore Valley in the Diamer district. One death was also confirmed in Astore. A body, possibly of a missing tourist, was recovered from the Indus River in the Minar area of Chilas, according to G-B government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq.
As search and rescue operations continue in G-B, stranded tourists are being evacuated to safer locations. Authorities have urged the public to remain alert and follow advisories, particularly in areas prone to landslides and flash floods.
Adding to the urgency, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning for a new Pakistan monsoon spell, expected to bring more widespread rain, thunderstorms, and heavy downpours from July 28 through July 31. The monsoon currents affecting the upper and central regions of the country are likely to intensify, with a new westerly wave entering on July 29.
Rain-wind/thundershower activity, along with isolated heavy falls, is forecast across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and various districts in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The PMD cautions residents in vulnerable regions to take preventive measures and stay informed through official updates.
With saturated ground conditions and already overwhelmed drainage systems, the upcoming days could bring further destruction. As the Pakistan monsoon spell continues, authorities at all levels are urging communities to prioritize safety and preparedness.
