RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Army has intensified its flood relief efforts across Punjab and other provinces, even as two personnel embraced martyrdom and two others sustained injuries while carrying out rescue operations.
Addressing a joint press conference with Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Director General Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that the sacrifices of the soldiers highlighted the Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting the nation during natural disasters. He stressed that the Pakistan Army and the people of Pakistan stood united, and “no malicious force can drive a wedge between them.”
On the special directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir, an engineer brigade along with 19 infantry and medical units have been deployed in flood-hit districts. These units are spearheading relief and rescue efforts where thousands remain at risk from rising waters.
Scale of Operations Across Provinces
According to the DG ISPR, the Army has mobilized flood response units across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. So far, around 28,000 people have been rescued during the ongoing operations.
In addition, 29 Army medical camps have been established in different provinces, where over 20,700 people have received treatment. Alongside medical assistance, 225 tons of rations have been distributed among flood-affected communities.
Despite severe weather conditions, Army aviation has carried out 26 sorties to deliver supplies and evacuate stranded residents. Critical infrastructure repairs are also underway, with three major bridges—two in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and one in Gilgit-Baltistan—already restored. Additionally, 104 roads have been cleared in collaboration with local authorities. The Karakoram Highway (KKH) is now fully open, and the remaining blocked routes in Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to be cleared within the next 24 to 48 hours.
Relief Efforts in Punjab
Punjab remains one of the hardest-hit regions, with Sialkot, Wazirabad, Kasur, and parts of Lahore Division under stress due to floodwaters.
In Sialkot and Wazirabad, where a large population has been badly affected, Pakistan Army relief teams are using boats to evacuate residents to safer areas. Priority is being given to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, women, and children. Alongside relocation, Army personnel are also distributing food and relief supplies to families who have lost their homes.
In Lahore Division, around 50 Army officers and soldiers are actively engaged in flood relief efforts, working around the clock with civil administration and Rescue 1122 teams.
In Kasur, where dozens of villages have been submerged, 21 rescue and relief camps have been established in coordination with the district administration. So far, nearly 10,000 people and their livestock have been evacuated from 72 villages. Medical care and essential supplies have been arranged to support those displaced by the disaster.
A United National Response
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif emphasized that the relief operations are a testament to the Army’s deep connection with the people. “The Pakistan Army will never leave its people alone in times of crisis,” he said.
Floods in Punjab and other regions have caused large-scale displacement, destruction of crops, and damage to infrastructure. Authorities continue to warn residents in low-lying areas to remain cautious and cooperate with evacuation efforts.
The ongoing Pak Army floods operations highlight the role of the military in disaster management, not only in conducting immediate rescues but also in restoring vital infrastructure, providing healthcare, and ensuring that essential supplies reach those in need. Despite the loss of its own soldiers, the Army has reaffirmed its resolve to continue supporting the people until the crisis is fully under control.
For now, relief operations remain the top priority as the Army, NDMA, and provincial administrations work together to mitigate the human and material losses caused by the devastating floods.
