Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a decision to clear flood zones across the province within three months.
The approval was granted during a special meeting on post-flood management chaired by the chief minister, where relevant departments presented a detailed briefing. The chief minister directed authorities to strictly enforce the ban on construction within river passages and waterways. It was also decided that no financial assistance would be provided if illegal constructions built within water channels collapse during floods.
The meeting also approved the restructuring of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority and the creation of eight new wings to strengthen disaster response capacity.
Participants agreed on a proposal to construct 17 mini dams at different locations across Punjab. A decision was also taken to enhance water storage capacity at Kalabagh and Sadhnai Barrage. The chief minister further directed the introduction of inflatable dam technology in the province.
During the meeting, approval was also granted for the establishment of District Emergency Operation Centers, regional disaster centers and warehouses. The chief minister also approved the provision of modern equipment to Rescue 1122 for flood operations.
The briefing informed the meeting that rehabilitation work on flood-affected roads and routes has been completed. A total of 186 roads spanning 563 kilometers, 446 culverts and one bridge damaged during floods have been restored.
It was further informed that along the five major rivers of the province, 1,990 areas fall under high-risk flood zones, 1,278 under medium-risk zones and 3,169 under low-risk zones. The meeting was also briefed that 183 irrigation projects are currently underway in Punjab, while desilting work will be carried out on 298 drains and flood channels and 67 drainage systems.
The chief minister was also presented with a detailed report outlining short-, medium- and long-term planning for flood management across the province.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has extended heartfelt greetings to the people of the Saraiki region on Saraiki Ajrak Day, saying, “Sarey bhraawan koo Saraiki dinh di mubarak thive.”
In her special message on the occasion, the chief minister said that the Saraiki Ajrak is her favourite cultural symbol and represents sincerity, love and warmth. She noted that Ajrak is a centuries-old cultural identity of the Saraiki region and reflects the rich traditions and heritage of its people.