By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, on Saturday called for swift action to protect lives and property from recurring floods, as the death toll from this year’s devastating deluge reached 956, the military said.
“…(the) state cannot afford the loss of precious lives and properties every year,” Munir said during visits to flood-hit areas in Kasur and a relief camp in Jalalpur Pirwala, Multan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). “…all necessary measures including infrastructural development required for protecting the people against the devastations caused by frequent floods should be expedited.”
Since June 26, floods and rain-related incidents have killed 956 people and injured 1,062 across Pakistan, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reporting 504 deaths and Punjab 268, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said.
Munir conducted an aerial survey of flood-affected zones along the Lahore-Kasur and Multan-Jalalpur Pirwala axes to assess damage and relief efforts. Accompanied by Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman and senior officials, he was briefed on ongoing rescue and relief operations, which involve close coordination between military and civilian authorities, the ISPR said.
Speaking to civil administration officials, Munir stressed the need for “good governance and inclusive, people-centric progress” to tackle the crisis. At the Jalalpur Pirwala camp, he met flood victims evacuated by the army and civilian teams, assuring them of continued support for resettlement and rehabilitation. The evacuees expressed “heartfelt gratitude” for the military’s timely aid, the ISPR added.
Munir also praised troops, Rescue 1122 personnel, and police for their “high morale” and “steadfast dedication” in challenging conditions, commending their round-the-clock efforts alongside civilian authorities.
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