Punjab Flood Emergency: 74 Schools Closed in Sahiwal, 105 in Muzaffargarh

Punjab, Pakistan – Severe flooding caused by the overflowing Ravi River has triggered widespread disruption across several districts of Punjab, particularly in Sahiwal, where rising waters have engulfed entire localities. In response to the worsening situation, district authorities have ordered the closure of dozens of educational institutions for seven days, turning many of them into emergency relief camps to accommodate displaced families.

Flood Hits Sahiwal Hard

The Ravi River, swollen by torrential rains and upstream water flow, has overflowed into adjacent settlements in Sahiwal. Several villages and residential areas have been submerged, prompting large-scale evacuations and urgent relief operations. One of the most alarming incidents occurred in the Moza Akbar Shah locality, where floodwaters surrounded a house, trapping three individuals, including two women.

Thanks to the swift response of Rescue 1122 and the Pakistan Army, who conducted a joint operation under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Shahid Mehmood, the stranded family was rescued safely. The individuals were transported to a secure location, highlighting the efficiency of the coordinated disaster management efforts.

Deputy Commissioner Shahid Mehmood later praised the rescue workers, acknowledging their dedication and courage in executing timely life-saving measures under dangerous circumstances.

Schools Transformed into Relief Camps

As the flood continues to disrupt normal life, the Sahiwal district administration has officially announced that 74 educational institutions in flood-affected areas will remain closed for an additional seven days. A notification has already been issued to implement the decision.

The closure is not only intended to ensure the safety of students but also to utilize the school buildings as makeshift relief centers. These institutions are now housing displaced individuals and providing them with immediate necessities such as food, shelter, and medical assistance.

Authorities explained that schools provide a practical choice for relief camps due to their accessibility, large open spaces, and basic facilities. “Our priority is to protect the lives of people and to provide immediate relief. Schools in affected areas have therefore been designated as emergency shelters,” an official statement from the district administration read.

Muzaffargarh Also on High Alert

Meanwhile, in Muzaffargarh, another prone-to-flood district in Punjab, things are on edge as people prepare against the potential of flooding. With the looming threat of river water spilling into vulnerable settlements, the district administration has proactively closed 105 schools across the region.

This precautionary measure mirrors the approach taken in Sahiwal and is aimed at minimizing risk while providing infrastructure support for relief operations. Local authorities are maintaining close coordination with rescue agencies and the military to monitor flood developments and carry out timely evacuations if necessary.

Widespread Displacement and Emergency Response

Hundreds of families across Sahiwal and Muzaffargarh have already been displaced by the floodwaters. Rescue 1122 teams, supported by Pakistan Army units, have been deployed to conduct round-the-clock operations. Boats, emergency vehicles, and medical units are actively working to ensure safe evacuations, distribute food supplies, and offer medical aid to those in need.

Residents from submerged areas are being shifted to designated schools and government buildings now serving as relief shelters. The administration has appealed to citizens in low-lying areas to voluntarily relocate to safer grounds before the floodwaters advance further.

Government’s Relief Efforts and Public Advisory

Punjab’s provincial government has declared the situation a priority emergency and directed all relevant departments to remain on high alert. Relief goods, including tents, rations, and medicines, are being dispatched to affected areas. Health teams have also been mobilized to prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases, a common risk following floods.

Officials have urged the public to stay vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement in flooded zones, and report emergencies immediately to the district control rooms or Rescue 1122 helplines.