Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz pushes for strict flood zone compliance, advanced safety measures 

Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Friday chaired a high-level meeting to discuss preparedness regarding possible flooding and emergency response in the province.

During the meeting the relevant departments submitted detailed briefings, and a series of key decisions were taken.

The chief minister directed that all flood-prone zones be evacuated within the next three months, with a strict ban on new construction in these areas. Compliance with existing Supreme Court (SC) rulings regarding construction in flood zones was also emphasized.

During the meeting, approval was granted to construct mini-dams at 17 locations across Punjab. Additionally, a feasibility report for a dam in Chiniot received in-principle approval.

The capacity of water reservoirs at Kala Bagh and Sudhnai will be increased, and the introduction of inflatable dam technology was ordered to better regulate water flow.

It was announced that the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) will undergo restructuring with the creation of eight new wings.

The emergency service Rescue 1122 will be equipped with advanced tools for flood operations, including landing crafts, boat carrier trucks, modern navigation and communication systems, and floating life jackets.

Officials reported that 186 roads spanning 563 kilometers, 446 bridges, and one additional bridge in Punjab have been restored following flood damage.

The province’s five major rivers were assessed for flood risk zones, identifying 1,990 high-risk, 1,278 medium-risk, and 3,169 low-risk areas. Currently, 183 irrigation projects are underway, while 298 drains and flood channels, along with 67 drainage systems, are scheduled for de-silting.

In light of forecasts predicting rainfall 28 percent above the seasonal average this year, the provincial government has accelerated preventive measures to mitigate flood-related risks.