LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday placed all relevant departments on high alert and ordered the full mobilization of human and mechanical resources to tackle monsoon-related emergencies, including urban flooding and potential river flooding across the province.
The directives were issued during a high-level meeting in Lahore, where officials from the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) and other departments briefed the chief minister on rainfall forecasts, drainage operations, and emergency preparedness.
The meeting reviewed the province’s response plan and approved a series of preventive measures to minimize loss of life and property.
Expressing concern over deaths caused by electrocution during recent rains, Maryam Nawaz directed the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and other electricity distribution companies to immediately remove hazardous wires and repair unsafe infrastructure.
The chief minister instructed WASA to respond promptly to complaints received through its helpline and maintain a record of complaint resolution.
She also ordered authorities to enforce a ban on bathing in rivers, dams, and barrages, with drone surveillance to monitor vulnerable locations and prevent accidents.
She directed officials to launch an extensive public awareness campaign through mosques, electronic and social media to keep citizens informed about rainfall forecasts, flood risks, and safety precautions.
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Construction sites, open manholes, drains, and excavated areas are to be secured, while unsafe buildings will be inspected and occupants encouraged to evacuate voluntarily where necessary.
Maryam Nawaz appealed to parents to keep children away from floodwaters and other dangerous areas.
She also ordered the deployment of “Clinic on Wheels” units in affected regions to provide medical assistance for snakebite victims and help prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
Special instructions were issued for timely warnings and evacuation plans in Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan in anticipation of hill torrents and urban flooding, while precautionary measures were also ordered in Murree due to the risk of landslides.
The chief minister directed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), WASA, Rescue 1122, and local government departments to maintain close coordination and ensure that flood control rooms remain operational round the clock in every district.
She said WASA had been established in 41 districts for the first time, while 1,000 dewatering sets, sucker machines, and other equipment had been distributed across Punjab.
