- Advertisement -
LAHORE, Jul 04 (APP):Punjab Health Minister and Chairman Cabinet Committee for Disaster Management Khawaja Salman Rafique has said that special directives have been issued across the province in view of the second spell of monsoon rains, forecast to continue from July 5 to July 10.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a province-wide alert to all district administrations regarding potential weather-related risks. The minister made these remarks during his visit to the PDMA Head Office on Friday, where he reviewed the latest weather updates and monsoon preparedness measures. Additional Director General PDMA Syed Jawad Haider briefed the minister, informing him that heavy rainfall is expected to begin on the night of July 6 and that this year’s monsoon may bring 25 per cent more rain than usual.
Special focus was placed on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, with concerns raised about the impact of rains on religious processions and gatherings. The minister emphasized that, following the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, all relevant institutions — including WASA and rescue services — must remain on high alert.
Khawaja Salman Rafique assured that the PDMA control room and provincial emergency operation centers are fully active. He also reviewed the arrangements for managing potential urban flooding due to heavy downpours, and vowed to mobilize all available resources to protect citizens.
“All agencies, particularly WASA, must ensure timely drainage from low-lying areas,” he said. He confirmed that the current water flow in all rivers across Punjab remains normal but urged continuous monitoring.
The minister strongly advised the public to follow safety guidelines issued by PDMA Punjab and avoid bathing in rivers, canals, and streams. He also directed local administrations to enforce Section 144 around water bodies to prevent any mishaps.