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Abstract
The Gujranwala Division of Punjab, Pakistan, which comprises the industrial areas of Gujranwala, Sialkot, and Narowal, is a problematic case study area, where hydrological volatility, industrial non-compliance and the vulnerability of health of the population have intersected. This report gives a descriptive epidemiological and environmental study of the influence of the disastrous August-September 2025 catastrophic floods on gastrointestinal (GI) morbidity. The 2025 crisis in contrast to historical floods that are mainly caused by overflowing rivers was characterized by the so-called toxic cocktail: the inundation of industrial and residential areas by floodwater contaminated with heavy metals (Chromium, Lead, Cadmium, Arsenic) and enteric pathogens (Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella Typhi, Shigella). Based on hydro-climatic data, water quality indicators and disease surveillance notices, this paper outlines the sources of contamination, and quantifies the health burden and criticizes the structural inadequacy of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure. The discussion shows that the floods in this area are not only hydrological risks but complicated toxicological processes when with the help of the heavy metal the intestinal epithelial barrier is weakened, and the waterborne infections are aggravated by the interaction. Our hypothesis is as follows: The synchronization of the flood peaks in both rivers, the Chenab and the Ravi, produced a backwater impact, which halted the urban drainage systems, endangering millions of people with dangerous levels of industrial effluent. This report provides a conclusion to strategic recommendations of hydrological separation and industrial compliance to develop resilience to disasters caused by climate in future.