Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari stated on Thursday that the province has not sought assistance from the federation or any other authority, managing the ongoing flood crisis with its own resources. She said the government is facing one of the toughest calamities in recent years but remains committed to providing relief and support to affected communities.
Addressing a press conference in Lahore, Bukhari highlighted that the situation in Jalalpur Pirwala is serious, and the Chief Minister will personally meet families of victims tomorrow. She added that wherever negligence or shortcomings were found, immediate action was taken to resolve issues and ensure public safety.
The minister confirmed that the flood situation at Punjab’s two major barrages is currently under control. Decisions about breaching embankments, she said, are purely technical and will be made by the technical committee rather than politicians. This ensures that the safety of citizens remains the top priority.
Bokhari also noted that Punjab has deployed 490 medical camps and 412 veterinary camps in flood-affected areas, providing treatment to both people and livestock. She condemned incidents of misconduct, such as a private boat operator demanding money from flood victims, and confirmed that strict action is being taken against negligent officials.
In Khanewal, delayed wheat securing led to some losses, but the government is cracking down on hoarders to prevent artificial price hikes. Bukhari said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is closely monitoring wheat stocks, resulting in a Rs. 700 per maund reduction in wheat prices. Authorities have vowed to prevent unjustified flour price increases.
Furthermore, Bukhari announced that relief goods sent by the Saudi government and Shah Faisal Trust have been distributed among flood victims. She added that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will soon unveil a major relief package to further assist affected families and communities.