Punjab Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee for Disaster Management, Khawaja Salman Rafique, on Thursday said that all relevant departments have been placed on high alert to effectively deal with any emergency situation arising from heavy rains or flooding across the province.
Punjab departments on high alert to tackle rain, flood emergencies: Kh Salman Rafique
LAHORE, Jul 02 (APP): Punjab Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee for Disaster Management, Khawaja Salman Rafique, on Thursday said that all relevant departments have been placed on high alert to effectively deal with any emergency situation arising from heavy rains or flooding across the province.
The minister made these remarks during his visit to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab, where he reviewed the prevailing weather conditions and preparedness measures. During the visit, Director General PDMA Umar Javed briefed him in detail on the latest rainfall situation, dam conditions and water levels in rivers, including the water ratio in Indian dams.
According to the briefing, pre-monsoon rains are expected in several districts of Punjab, including Lahore, until July 6. The provincial minister also reviewed the water flow in major rivers and assessed the overall flood preparedness of the province.
Khawaja Salman Rafique said that under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, all necessary preparations have been completed by the concerned institutions. He added that district emergency operation centres across Punjab, along with the provincial control room, are fully operational and on alert.
He directed Rescue 1122, WASA and other relevant agencies to keep their machinery and personnel ready to respond to any emergency. The minister further stressed the need for immediate drainage of rainwater from residential areas and the removal of accumulated water from identified choking points to minimise public inconvenience and potential risks.
He also urged citizens to remain cautious during the rainy season, advising them to stay away from electric poles, hanging wires and other hazardous locations.
Director General PDMA Umar Javed said that the situation is being monitored round the clock through the PDMA control room. He advised citizens to avoid staying in mud houses and dilapidated buildings, while urging parents to keep children away from accumulated rainwater in low-lying areas.
