Pakistan flood horror: Reporter washed away mid-broadcast at Chahan dam, viewers shocked—‘was it worth the risk for TRPs?'

Time of India

18-07-2025

As Pakistan grapples with relentless floods, a chilling incident near Chahan Dam in Rawalpindi has captured national and international attention. A journalist was swept away by strong flood currents during a live broadcast—an event that was recorded on camera and widely shared online. The video, initially uploaded by Al Arabiya English, shows the reporter submerged in neck-deep water, holding a microphone, before being overtaken by the current. His head and hand holding the mic are the last things visible before he vanishes under the rising water.
The video has gone viral on social media, prompting widespread concern and mixed reactions. While many users praised the journalist's dedication to reporting from the frontlines, others raised serious concerns about the safety protocols followed during live reporting in hazardous conditions.
Torrential rains leave 116 dead, millions affected
The incident occurred amid widespread flooding across Pakistan, caused by continuous torrential rains since June 26. According to official figures, the floods have claimed the lives of at least 116 people and left more than 250 injured. Punjab has seen the highest number of casualties at 44, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 37, Balochistan with 19, and Sindh with 18. Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) has reported one death and five injuries.
The floods have impacted millions of residents, destroying homes and critical infrastructure. Essential services, including electricity and water supply, have been severely disrupted. The collapse of the Chahan Dam has further worsened the situation, submerging large parts of Rawalpindi and prompting urgent rescue and relief efforts.
A #flood #emergency has been declared in #Pakistan as #ChahanDam in #Rawalpindi collapsed due to relentless #rainfall. Areas like #Fauji Foundation Chowk and Bahria Town Phase 8 are #inundated. A reporter was caught in flash floods, highlighting the severity of the situation.… pic.twitter.com/wt0YmR9eAF
Caught on camera: Footage triggers public outcry
The moment of the journalist being swept away was broadcast live and quickly circulated on social platforms. The video shows the reporter standing in a dangerously high water level, delivering his report with only his head and arm above water. Within moments, the strength of the current pulls him under.
Reactions on social media were swift. Some users commended the reporter for his bravery, calling it 'true field reporting.' Others were critical, asking whether the coverage was worth the personal risk. One user wrote that the journalist's act was 'courageous but reckless,' while another questioned if it was 'reporting or risking life for TRP.'
A Pakistani reporter is swept away by strong currents during a live broadcast while covering the floods in neck-deep water. pic.twitter.com/r5g486siG2
Debate over journalistic boundaries and safety
The identity of the reporter has not yet been made public, but the incident has reignited discussions around the safety of journalists working in disaster zones. Many have pointed fingers at news organisations for encouraging high-risk reporting to gain viewership.
'Was this necessary journalism or just a stunt for ratings?' questioned one viewer online. Others stressed the need for stronger safety protocols when reporting from active disaster areas.
The debate continues as the video serves as a grim reminder of the dangers journalists face while covering real-time crises. It also raises important questions about how far media outlets should go in pursuit of exclusive footage, especially when lives are at stake.