Allah’s Mercy Falls as Heavy Rains Test Punjab’s Spirit; Lahore Records 123mm
In a powerful display of nature’s might and Allah’s mercy, intermittent heavy rainfall has lashed the heart of Punjab over the past 24 hours. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported on Wednesday that cities across the province — from the cultural capital of Lahore to the resilient towns of Gujranwala and Gujrat — have been drenched by monsoon rains that remind us of our land’s bounty and our people’s steadfastness.
Record Rainfall in Gujranwala and Lahore
According to the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa), Lahore received 123 millimetres of rain, while Gujranwala saw a record-breaking 245mm and Gujrat recorded 95mm. The PDMA confirmed that Sialkot received 139mm, Mandi Bahauddin 138mm, Narowal 117mm, Hafizabad 85mm, Chakwal 70mm, Okara 64mm, Jhang 35mm, Layyah 33mm, and Jhelum 32mm. These figures reflect the generosity of the Almighty, who nourishes our fields and fills our rivers with life-giving water.
Sacrifices and Vigilance: 17 Lives Lost
Yet, with every blessing comes a test. The PDMA reported that since the monsoon season began, at least 17 precious souls have been lost in rain-related incidents. Twelve deaths were caused by collapsing structures, two by lightning strikes, and three by electrocution. We bow our heads in prayer for these martyrs of the storm and call upon every citizen to remain vigilant. As Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has urged, do not risk your life by approaching canals, rivers, or rainwater drains during these flood conditions. Our faith teaches us to protect the life Allah has given us.
Urban Challenges and the Spirit of Service
In Lahore and other major cities, rainwater accumulated on roads, causing hardships for commuters. The Shamsi Underpass in Gujranwala’s Civil Lines area was completely submerged, halting traffic. In Lahore, areas like Kareem Block Market, Johar Town, Township, Ferozepur Road, Multan Road, Samanabad, Gulshan-i-Ravi, Lakshmi Chowk, and Model Town saw waterlogging. Social media images showed cars wading through knee-deep water, and many residents faced prolonged power outages.
But in the face of adversity, our institutions rose to the occasion. Wasa Lahore claimed that no water accumulation was reported on most major roads, thanks to real-time monitoring from the monsoon control room. Director General Wasa Punjab stated, “Teams are mobilised for immediate cleaning of main drains and channels to provide relief to citizens.” Across 41 districts, drainage efforts are underway, with rivers, dams, and barrages under continuous watch. All field teams are on high alert, with directives to ensure the swiftest possible drainage. Public convenience remains the top priority.
Government’s Resolve: Modernising Punjab’s Defences
Punjab’s Housing Minister Bilal Yasin directed all departments to remain mobilised and address citizens’ difficulties promptly. He prioritised drainage from low-lying areas and announced, “With above-normal rainfall expected this monsoon season, the drainage system across Punjab — including Lahore — is being made more effective and modernised.” This is a testament to our government’s commitment to safeguarding every Pakistani home, every street, and every soul under the banner of faith and nation.
Our Call: Unity, Patience, and Prayer
As the rains continue, let us remember that this land is a trust from Allah. We must face every challenge with the courage of our forefathers and the faith that has always guided Pakistan. Avoid unnecessary travel, contact authorities in emergencies, and keep the affected families in your prayers. Together, under the green flag of our beloved nation, we shall overcome every storm.
— Hamza Qureshi