Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called climate change a major challenge for Pakistan. He said the country must build new dams without wasting time. Speaking in Narowal, he warned that floods are now hitting Punjab after damaging Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He added that floodwaters are flowing through rivers in Punjab. The Prime Minister thanked NDMA, Rescue 1122, and other agencies for their efforts.
He praised federal ministers, the Pakistan Army, civil administration, and local leaders for their quick response. Due to early warning systems, the damage has remained limited. However, he expressed sorrow over the loss of lives caused by the floods. Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan is among the countries most affected by climate change. He stressed the need for better disaster response in the future.
The Prime Minister said future disasters could be even worse. He urged stronger action from rescue agencies and disaster management bodies. He said the country has the potential to build many small dams. He called for a united effort by the federal and provincial governments. “We must act now to store more water and protect our future,” he said.
Shehbaz Sharif recalled the 2022 floods that devastated Sindh and Balochistan. Millions of acres of crops were destroyed. He said similar threats could return if preventive steps are not taken. He warned that Pakistan cannot afford to delay flood protection efforts again. His visit aimed to raise awareness and push for quicker decisions.
Earlier, Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz took an aerial tour of the flood-affected areas. NDMA Chairman Lt. Gen. Inam Haider briefed them on the situation. He said high flood levels are being recorded in the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers. Areas like Gujrat, Hafizabad, Sargodha, and Jhang may be affected. Floodwaters in the Ravi may also hit Shahdara and Narowal soon.