13 die as rain wreaks havoc in Punjab, Balochistan

As many as 13 people in various parts of the country, including Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir, have lost their lives due to extreme weather conditions and heavy rainfall.

Heavy casualties were reported in various incidents of land sliding and roof lapse, particularly in Punjab district Hattian Bala, Dir Bala, Multan and Rojhan, as some 13 people are reported to have been killed, while numerous others are injured.

The Balochistan government on Wednesday issued flood emergency in Lasbela and other areas after heavy rain lashed the city and suburban areas, while seeking the help of Pakistan Army and other state institutions for the rehabilitation activities.

Balochistan government sought help from Pakistan Army due to the worsening situation in Lasbela district amid continual rain, the government spokesperson's statement said: “Emergency has been declared in Lasbela.”

The spokesperson added that departments concerned and the district administration of Lasbela are taking part in the rehabilitation process.

While rescue operation is underway, bodies of two people who lost their lives in Uthal city have been recovered.

Meanwhile, other cities including Chaman, Gwadar and Turbat, are experiencing severe flooding due to heavy rainfall.

Widespread rains were recorded in different areas of Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan. The Met Office forecasts more rain during the week till Friday.

The Met Office, in a last week press statement , said: “Widespread rain-thunderstorm (with few moderate to scattered heavy falls) is expected in Balochistan, while at scattered places in Sindh on Tuesday (evening) to Thursday. While in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir till Friday.”