Lahore (The COW News Digital)The Punjab government has called in the army to assist in flood relief operations across six districts following India’s sudden release of water into rivers, which has worsened the flooding situation in the province. The affected districts include Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Narowal, and Okara, where rivers are swelling due to both upstream water releases and ongoing monsoon rains.
Authorities confirmed that district administrations had formally requested army deployment to ensure public safety and support ongoing relief efforts. The Punjab Home Department has sent official communications to the federal ministry, authorizing the immediate mobilization of military forces to aid civilian agencies.
Local administrations, Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and police are already engaged in rescue and relief operations. However, with floodwaters threatening low-lying areas, additional assistance from the army is considered essential to prevent loss of life and property. Troop numbers will be determined in consultation with district officials, and if necessary, Army Aviation and other military resources will be deployed to reach the most affected areas.
Officials emphasized that the government is monitoring the flood situation 24/7 and utilizing all available resources to safeguard the public. Early mobilization of the military aims to ensure timely evacuation, effective rescue operations, and distribution of emergency supplies, reducing the potential impact of rising water levels.
A government spokesperson highlighted that this proactive response demonstrates coordinated disaster management at both provincial and federal levels. The deployment is not only a measure for immediate relief but also a preventive strategy to mitigate potential large-scale damages.
With the river inflows continuing to rise, authorities are urging residents of riverside communities to follow evacuation orders and cooperate fully with emergency services. Public cooperation, alongside military and civil support, is expected to minimize casualties and prevent a humanitarian crisis in the worst-hit areas of Punjab.
The Punjab government has also appealed for calm and assured citizens that all necessary steps are being taken to manage the floodwaters, including maintaining relief camps, providing food, medical aid, and ensuring public safety in vulnerable regions.
