PM Orders Relief, Evacuation in Flood-Hit Ghizer

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday issued special directives to tackle the flood situation in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghizer district, where a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) forced the evacuation of residents to safer locations.

The prime minister appreciated the timely response of rescue teams and local volunteers who managed the early evacuation of all residents in the affected area of Ghizer, thereby preventing casualties. He instructed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and district administration to continue rescue and relief operations, stressing the need for intensified activities in anticipation of two upcoming flood spells.

Mr Sharif directed authorities to remain fully prepared for relief operations in the lower parts of the country, particularly in the flood-prone areas along the Indus and Sutlej rivers, including Guddu, Sukkur and G.S. Wala. He further instructed the NDMA to maintain close coordination with provincial disaster management authorities.

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Announcing a national campaign to prevent construction along rivers, streams and natural waterways, the premier termed it a “national duty” to support citizens affected by the recent floods. He added that after evacuations and emergency assistance, rehabilitation work would commence without delay. Provision of medical aid and relief materials to all affected families must be ensured at all costs, he emphasised.

The prime minister also paid tribute to Wasiat Khan, a resident of Ghizer, who risked his life to alert villagers and authorities in advance of the outburst flood. His timely warning, Mr Sharif noted, made it possible to avoid loss of life.