Torrential rains measuring a record 526 millimetres have wreaked havoc across Gujrat, submerging roads, homes, and commercial centres.
Floodwaters entered major city markets and residential areas, leaving daily life paralysed and traders counting heavy losses.
Six rainwater drains overflowed on the city’s outskirts, flooding nearby villages before pushing into Gujrat city.
Commercial hubs, including Kachhari Chowk, Court Road and Muslim Bazaar, were inundated, forcing traders to shift valuables from their shops late at night without any assistance from authorities.
“Neither the district administration nor municipal staff were visible while we struggled to save our goods,” said one trader.
Many shopkeepers expressed anger at what they called “criminal negligence” and demanded strict action from the Punjab chief minister.
Floodwaters also entered homes in several neighbourhoods, damaging household items and cutting off access to basic facilities.
Citizens complained that their stoves had “gone cold” as cooking became impossible with standing water in kitchens.
Adding to the crisis, rainwater entered the district jail and sessions court premises, forcing the transfer of inmates to Lahore and Gujranwala prisons.
Schools shut, buildings collapse
Authorities announced that all educational institutions across the district would remain closed as machinery was moved from Gujranwala to help drain water.
In Jalalpur Jattan, a two-storey vacant building collapsed after its foundations weakened due to flooding, though no casualties were reported.
Commissioner Gujranwala said a protective dam was being built near Madina Syedan to divert water into a storm drain, while heavy machinery had been deployed to aid in clearance.
Flood risk continues
Meanwhile, the second major flood wave in the Chenab River is heading towards Head Trimmu, raising concerns of further inundation in Punjab’s low-lying areas. Officials fear that if river levels continue to rise, the impact may stretch well beyond Gujrat.
Recent pattern of extreme rains
Earlier, on August 27, Sialkot had recorded 355mm of rainfall in a single spell, leaving streets and neighbourhoods submerged for days.
Experts warn that such extreme downpours are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change. Pakistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to floods, earthquakes and landslides triggered by shifting weather patterns.
