CM Maryam directs authorities to remain alert amid urban flooding
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 Punjab’s flood response plan and approved several preventive measures to minimise the risk of loss of life and property during the ongoing monsoon season. Expressing concern over recent deaths caused by electrocution, Maryam Nawaz directed the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and other electricity distribution companies to immediately remove hazardous wires and repair unsafe infrastructure.
She instructed WASA to respond promptly to complaints received through its helpline and maintain a proper record of complaint resolution. The chief minister also ordered a complete ban on bathing in rivers, dams and barrages. She directed authorities to use drone surveillance at vulnerable locations to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
Maryam Nawaz instructed officials to launch a large-scale public awareness campaign through mosques, electronic media and social media to keep citizens informed about rainfall forecasts, flood risks and safety precautions.
She also directed authorities to secure construction sites, open manholes, drains and excavated areas. Unsafe buildings will be inspected, and residents will be encouraged to evacuate voluntarily where necessary.
Appealing to parents, the chief minister urged them to keep children away from floodwaters, rivers and other dangerous areas during the monsoon season. She further ordered the deployment of “Clinic on Wheels” units in affected areas to provide medical treatment for snakebite victims and help prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.
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Special instructions were issued for timely warnings and evacuation plans in Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan due to the risk of hill torrents and urban flooding. Authorities were also directed to take precautionary measures in Murree because of the threat of landslides.
Maryam Nawaz instructed 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 around the clock in every district.
She said WASA has been established in 41 districts for the first time, while 1,000 dewatering sets, sucker machines and other emergency equipment have been distributed across Punjab to strengthen the province’s flood response capacity.
