Devastating Rain, Flood Wreak Havoc in Chakwal’s Dhoda Town

Farhan Younas 

Chakwal: Torrential rains  and flash floods have caused widespread destruction across Punjab’s Chakwal district, with Dhoda town bearing the brunt of the disaster. 

Flash floods triggered by relentless downpours have ravaged residential areas, collapsing or sinking hundreds of homes and leaving many more uninhabitable.Survivors say they have been forced to take refuge on rooftops and elevated spaces, as rescue operations remain largely absent—more than 48 hours after the calamity began.

Local traders in Dhoda’s main bazaar report crippling losses, with floodwaters inundating shops for hours and destroying inventory and property. Preliminary estimates put the damages in the millions of rupees.Adding to the growing frustration is the alleged negligence of authorities. While Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz recently visited Chakwal district, residents claim Dhoda—the worst-affected town—was bypassed. 

Locals further allege that the district administration submitted an “all-clear” report that grossly underreported the extent of the devastation.

Criticism has also intensified over the government’s long-standing failure to upgrade Dhoda’s seasonal drainage system, despite repeated demands by residents. The town has suffered from recurring floods every two years due to poor infrastructure and inadequate planning.

With meteorologists warning of more rainfall in the coming days, anxiety continues to mount among affected families.

Residents have demanded that the Punjab government declare Dhoda a disaster zone, conduct a comprehensive damage assessment, and launch immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts.

Without urgent intervention, locals fear the crisis may worsen, putting countless lives and livelihoods at risk.