Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has urged the federal government role in floods to be more proactive in addressing the devastation caused by heavy flooding in Punjab.

While acknowledging Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s tireless efforts, he stressed that the scale of destruction is far greater than what the media initially portrayed.

Speaking to flood victims in Kasur, Bilawal said Punjab has suffered the most in the recent disaster and insisted that federal authorities must take the lead in relief operations. “This is not something the provincial government can handle alone,” he remarked, adding that the previous government also provided nationwide support during major floods, and the same spirit must continue now.

Bilawal Bhutto appreciated CM Maryam Nawaz’s dedication, saying, “It must be admitted that she is working hard. During natural calamities, those who work the hardest often face the harshest criticism.” He revealed that he has directed his party workers to expand relief activities across Punjab to support the provincial administration.

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Highlighting the severe agricultural losses, Bilawal called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to declare an agricultural emergency in Punjab. He proposed assistance for farmers through subsidized seeds and fertilizers while also urging relief in electricity bills and agricultural loans. “The damage to crops and livelihoods is massive. Farmers need urgent help to get back on their feet,” he emphasized.

The PPP chairman also stressed that damage assessments of homes and businesses must be carried out quickly. He pointed out that in Sindh, the government is constructing 2 million houses with federal support and suggested extending a similar model to Punjab through the Benazir Income Support Program.

Touching on regional concerns, Bilawal accused India of violating the Indus Waters Treaty by failing to share timely information before releasing water from upstream rivers. He criticized the Modi government, saying, “This time India even forgot humanity. They informed us at the very last moment before releasing water.” He pledged to raise the issue at the global level, declaring that India must either respect the treaty or face international accountability.

Warning of India’s “water terrorism,” Bilawal said Pakistan will not stay silent over such actions. “Our rivers must be returned, and the world must know how water is being used as a weapon against ordinary people,” he concluded.