Floodwater inundates over 100 villages in Jhang

JHANG: Over 100 villages have been inundated due to flood in River Chenab in the district, it has been stated officially.

Standing crops on hundreds of acres of land have been washed away by the floodwater in the district. The River Chenab passes through the district and combines with River Jhelum at Trimu Headworks.

The floodwater inundated villages in Tehsil Jhang and played havoc with the standing crops. Officials said the floodwater was touching the protective bund all around the Jhang urban area.

The Sargodha Road has been closed for all types of traffic and floodwater is overflowing the Jhang-Sargodha Road at three points.

In Tehsil Athara Hazari, floodwater has inundated at least 50 villages. Link roads have been closed. Water has spread outside the Trimu Headworks and caused heavy losses to standing crops. Now water is heading for Tehsil Shorkot and Tehsil Ahmedpur Sial.

The district administration and Rescue 1122 are busy in an evacuation operation from the flooded areas. Eighteen relief camps have been set up to provide eatables and medicines to the affected people. Fodder and vaccination have also been arranged for the cattle heads.

DCO Ghazi Amanullah is personally monitoring the rescue and relief operation.  Meanwhile 26 rescuers including two officers have reached Jhang from Faisalabad, Toba, Sargodha and Sahiwal on the direction of Director General Punjab Emergency Service Arshad Zia.

District Emergency Officer Dr Tariq Saeed told the media here on Thursday that high flood was reported at the Trimu Headworks which had increased the water level in adjoining areas. He said Rescue 1122 was busy in the operation with boats and other equipments and rescuers were evacuating people.

He said Rescue 1122 staff was also providing first aid to the injured persons.

He said a 55-year old man Rahab Ali was bitten by a snake in Kot Khaira and was shifted to DHQ Hospital Jhang.