Schools and Offices Closed Amid Crisis
Authorities in the Pakistani city of Gujrat have declared all educational institutions and government offices closed for a second consecutive day as urban flooding continues to paralyze life. The announcement comes after several days of relentless rain and floodwaters that have inundated large sections of the city.
Officials say the step is precautionary, aimed at minimizing risks to students and employees. Public transport remains severely disrupted, with many roads submerged or damaged.
Record Rainfall Triggers Widespread Flooding
Meteorological data shows that Gujrat recorded more than 550 millimeters of rain in a single day earlier this week. In total, over 577 millimeters of rainfall has been measured in recent days — one of the heaviest spells the city has experienced in recent years.
The downpour caused water to accumulate not only in urban neighborhoods but also in surrounding rural districts. Compounding the problem, two seasonal streams flowing from Azad Kashmir surged into the city, intensifying the flood situation.
Authorities are also monitoring warnings of a new flood wave expected from India within the next 24 to 48 hours, which could worsen conditions further. Local engineers say the absence of protective embankments has made it impossible to fully control the water flow.
Urban Flooding Persists Despite Drainage Efforts
Municipal teams have managed to pump out a significant portion of the rainwater, but floodwaters continue to pour in from surrounding areas. As a result, several residential zones remain submerged, with reports of waist-deep water in low-lying neighborhoods.
Authorities acknowledge that urban flooding remains a critical challenge due to weak drainage systems and unplanned urban expansion. Experts note that the city’s infrastructure was not built to handle such extreme rainfall, leaving thousands vulnerable during monsoon downpours.
Evacuations and Relief Operations
Rescue agencies are engaged in nonstop efforts to relocate residents from flood-hit areas. Boats, tractors, and makeshift rafts are being used to transport families to safer ground. Volunteers have joined relief agencies in distributing food, clean water, and medical supplies to those stranded.
Displacement continues in many neighborhoods, with families carrying essential belongings and moving to temporary shelters set up by the administration. Local officials say priority is being given to children, women, and the elderly.
The atmosphere in many communities remains tense as residents fear further water inflows. Hospitals have also been placed on alert to deal with potential health emergencies such as waterborne diseases.
Administration’s Safety Appeals
Given the ongoing crisis, authorities have appealed to citizens to remain indoors unless evacuation is required. Officials warn that unnecessary movement in flood-hit zones could put lives at risk and hinder rescue operations.
In addition, the district administration has urged residents to cooperate with relief teams to ensure that evacuations can proceed smoothly. “Public cooperation is essential to save lives,” a senior rescue official stated.
Broader Context: Climate and Infrastructure Challenges
Flooding is a recurring challenge in Pakistan, particularly during the monsoon season. In 2022, the country faced catastrophic floods that submerged a third of its territory, displacing 33 million people and causing more than $30 billion in economic losses, according to the United Nations and World Bank.
Gujrat’s crisis highlights the vulnerability of urban centers with outdated drainage systems and inadequate flood defenses. Experts argue that without major investments in resilient infrastructure and climate adaptation, cities will continue to face devastating disruptions.
Looking Ahead
While drainage work continues and weather conditions may improve in the coming days, the recovery process is expected to be slow. Displaced residents are unlikely to return to their homes until water levels recede fully.
The local administration says its immediate priorities are safeguarding human lives, restoring essential services, and ensuring food and medical supplies reach the affected population. For the people of Gujrat, however, the focus remains on survival and safe relocation.
