Nearly 150,000 people have been shifted to safer areas in Punjab after the Sutlej River overflowed, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The large-scale evacuation began following early flood alert warnings issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) carried out rescue and evacuation operations across several districts. Emergency teams were deployed, and all departments were placed on high alert to protect lives and property.
According to NDMA figures, Bahawalnagar reported the highest evacuation with 89,868 residents moved to safety. Other affected districts include Kasur with 14,140 people relocated, Okara with 2,063, Pakpattan with 873, Bahawalpur with 361, and Vehari with 165. Authorities added that nearly 40,000 residents had already shifted soon after initial warnings.
READ MORE: Sutlej River Flood Alert as Level Rises
The NDMA has instructed institutions and emergency services to remain vigilant. Citizens have been advised to avoid rivers, streams, and low-lying areas, and to follow official safety guidelines circulated through TV, radio, mobile alerts, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app.
