The Sialkot district administration has taken emergency measures to protect lives and property, announcing that all educational institutions in Sialkot will remain closed today.

Deputy Commissioner Sialkot, Saba Asghar Ali, declared a local holiday, urging citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. She added that Section 144 has been imposed, strictly prohibiting people from going near rivers, streams, and other dangerous areas. Legal action will be taken against violators, she warned.

In Tehsil Kot Momin, the administration has also ordered the closure of schools today, stating that the decision was made to ensure the safety of children amid potential risks.

It is noteworthy that after India released large volumes of water into the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab rivers, several areas of Pakistan have recorded high-level flooding. Dozens of villages along riverbanks have been submerged, while thousands of acres of standing crops have been completely destroyed. Emergency has been declared in multiple districts, with rescue teams carrying out relief operations in affected areas.

Also Read: Punjab seeks army deployment as flood threat intensifies

Amid worsening flood conditions in Punjab, the provincial government formally requested the deployment of Pakistan Army personnel to support civil administrations in relief and rescue efforts.

In its latest statement on Wednesday, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) labeled the situation as "extreme," noting that a number of susceptible areas were already at risk.