A rescue boat capsized during relief efforts in the flooded River Chenab near Jalalpur Pirwala, resulting in the deaths of five people, including a woman and four children.
According to initial information, the Rescue 1122 boat overturned while evacuating flood victims. Over 20 people were on board, including women and children. Several individuals were rescued, while efforts continue to locate the missing.
The incident occurred in the village of Wachha Sandila, a suburban area of Tehsil Jalalpur. The deceased include 80-year-old Bakht Bibi, six-year-old Fatima Bibi, seven-year-old Amir, three-year-old Mahnoor, and two infants aged six and three months.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed sorrow over the tragic loss of life. She conveyed condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims.
Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Director General Irfan Ali Kathia held a telephonic conversation with the Multan deputy commissioner regarding the incident. During the briefing, it was conveyed that the boat lost balance due to strong currents.
The PDMA DG has directed that the injured receive the best possible medical care and assured that evacuation efforts during the flood emergency would be conducted safely. He emphasised that overloading must not occur in either private or rescue boats.
