Rescuers in Pakistan are racing to evacuate tens of thousands stranded by floods in eastern Punjab province, with many still lacking food and medical care as authorities struggle to deliver aid.

The floods began Monday after heavy rains forced sudden water releases from Indian dams on the Sutlej, Chenab and Ravi rivers, the worst deluge in the region in 40 years. Nearly 300,000 people have been evacuated and more than 1 million affected, said Irfan Ali Kathia of the Punjab Disaster Management Authority. At least 20 people have died in Punjab this week, raising the nationwide toll to 820 since late June.

Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir visited flood-hit Narowal district Friday to oversee rescue operations. Officials said around 1,100 relief and medical camps are operating, with more being set up.

Floodwaters have inundated villages near Lahore, sparking fears for the city. Authorities breached embankments along the Chenab River to ease pressure, but the National Disaster Management Authority warned rivers remain dangerously high and more rain could worsen the crisis.

Displaced families say they urgently need food and medicine. Aid workers report widespread infections, diarrhea, and malaria in submerged villages. Livestock are also falling sick due to lack of fodder and veterinary care.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif pledged compensation for losses to homes, crops, and livestock, saying the priority is saving lives and delivering aid.

The disaster highlights Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change. In neighboring India, nearly 100 people have died in flood-hit Kashmir.