Punjab PDMA Director General Kathia Leads Relief Efforts

Tragedy struck Punjab and Balochistan as lightning strikes resulted in the loss of 25 lives on Saturday. The incidents occurred amidst heavy rainfall and downpours, as reported by the Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) of the respective provinces. In Punjab, 17 individuals lost their lives to lightning strikes, while the death toll in Balochistan reached eight, with two additional fatalities.

The Punjab PDMA spokesperson stated that Director General Irfan Ali Kathia had promptly reached out to the deputy commissioners of the affected districts. He emphasized the importance of providing optimal medical care to the injured individuals and assured financial assistance to the families of the deceased. DG Kathia stressed the necessity of collaborative efforts in combating natural disasters, highlighting the need for joint cooperation among all organizations and departments.

Meanwhile, in Balochistan, the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre reported two more deaths in Dera Bugti due to lightning strikes. Additionally, one person sustained injuries in the Surab area of Kalat district. The PDMA update revealed partial damage to 10 to 15 houses in the Hamidabad region of Pishin, necessitating the evacuation of affected residents to safer locations. Rescue teams were actively engaged in addressing the flood situation in Pishin.

As the death toll rose to six in Balochistan, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti personally oversaw relief and rescue operations. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed condolences to the bereaved families. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, one fatality and two injuries were reported in Lower Chitral due to house collapses caused by heavy rains. Restoration efforts were initiated to clear blocked roads in various locations.

Concluding the tragic events, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah directed civic agencies to ensure preparedness for the anticipated heavy rains. Emphasizing the importance of clean drainage systems, CM Shah urged district administrations and police to assist citizens in need. With a focus on safety, he advised people, especially children, to remain indoors during torrential downpours.