Sialkot, August 27 – Sialkot witnessed one of the heaviest downpours in its history as 405 millimeters of rain lashed the city within just twelve hours, smashing all previous records and plunging life into chaos.
The rain, which began late on August 25, showed no signs of letting up, leaving streets, markets, and major highways submerged. Entire neighborhoods were cut off as floodwaters gushed into homes, paralyzing routine life. Thousands of residents remain stranded indoors while transport services and electricity supply have largely collapsed.
According to the Flood Control Room in Sialkot, most WAPDA feeders tripped under the relentless rain, pushing vast areas of the city into darkness. The fragile sewage system failed to cope, forcing drainage and rainwater into residential areas, compounding the misery of citizens.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department confirmed that this spell surpassed the infamous 1976 record of 339.7mm, making it the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in Sialkot. Officials warned that further showers could intensify the crisis.
Meanwhile, the water level at Head Marala Barrage has risen dangerously. Authorities reported that the barrage, designed to hold 1.1 million cusecs, is now facing inflows exceeding 9 million cusecs – a figure that has sparked urgent evacuation discussions for vulnerable downstream villages.
High-level floodwaters have already entered Bhimber Nallah, inundating low-lying areas around Kharian and nearby villages. The district administration has placed residents of Galiana, Do Do Barsala, Gujar Kotla, Mian Chak, and Panjan Kisan on high alert, urging them to be ready to evacuate at short notice.
Officials stressed that the deluge has exposed glaring weaknesses in the region’s drainage and flood control systems. With rainfall continuing and flood threats looming, the administration has called for coordinated emergency measures to prevent a wider disaster.
The record-breaking rains have not only battered Sialkot but also placed neighboring Gujrat and adjoining districts under severe strain. Citizens have been advised to remain cautious, follow official advisories, and prepare for possible further evacuations.
