Gujrat( The COW News Digital)Gujrat city has been hit by severe urban flooding following unprecedented rainfall, leaving residential, commercial, and government areas submerged. Over the past 24 hours, the region recorded 506 millimeters of rain, making it one of the worst rainfall events in recent history, according to the Meteorological Department.
Key areas including Madina Syedan, Kacheri Chowk, Gondal Chowk, Zahoor Elahi Stadium, and Jail Chowk have turned into temporary rivers due to overflowing drains and inadequate urban drainage systems. Citizens are facing extreme hardship, with floodwaters reaching heights of up to 4 feet in some neighborhoods.
Local authorities appear overwhelmed as rescue and water diversion efforts remain largely unsuccessful. Nala Bhinder and Nala Bhimber, critical urban waterways, have flooded nearby homes, and in one instance, an entire house was swept away by the rising waters.
Markets, shops, and commercial establishments have suffered significant losses, with valuable goods destroyed by the flood. Government buildings, including the Session Court complex, are also submerged, further highlighting the widespread impact of the disaster.
The flooding has brought daily life to a near standstill. Citizens have taken to the streets in search of safe locations, while mosques continuously broadcast warnings and safety instructions. The disaster has left residents anxious and fearful as the rain shows no immediate signs of stopping.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid low-lying areas, while relief operations are being coordinated to evacuate affected families and provide emergency assistance. The Meteorological Department warns that urban flooding may continue to worsen if heavy rains persist, emphasizing the urgent need for effective drainage and disaster management measures.
This unprecedented rainfall and the resulting urban flooding have once again exposed the vulnerabilities of city infrastructure in handling extreme weather events. Experts stress that improvements in drainage, early warning systems, and public preparedness are critical to mitigate future disasters.
