Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at protecting the people of Punjab from recurring flood devastation.
Chairing a special meeting on post-flood arrangements, the chief minister was given a detailed briefing by relevant departments on measures to prevent flood damage and improve disaster preparedness.
During the meeting, it was decided that all encroachments in flood zones would be removed within three months to eliminate the root causes of flood destruction. Authorities were also directed to clear waterways and ensure that areas designated as flood zones are vacated.
The chief minister further directed strict enforcement of the ban on construction within river channels and ordered continuous monitoring to prevent illegal building activities. She said that construction within riverbeds would be permanently prohibited.
Participants of the meeting also agreed on a proposal to construct mini dams at 17 locations across the province to improve water management and mitigate flood risks.
Officials informed the meeting that the feasibility report for constructing a dam in Chiniot has been completed and received initial approval. The chief minister also directed authorities to introduce inflatable dam technology for improved water storage and flood control.
The meeting also discussed increasing water storage capacity at Kalabagh and Sudhnai, while a restructuring plan for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority was approved, including the creation of eight new wings.
Approval was also granted for the establishment of District Emergency Operation Centres, regional disaster centres and warehouses to strengthen emergency response capacity.
Additionally, the chief minister approved the provision of modern equipment to Rescue 1122 for flood operations.
Officials informed the meeting that 186 roads stretching over 563 kilometres, 446 culverts and one bridge damaged by floods in the province have already been restored. Authorities also warned that rainfall this year may increase by up to 28 percent, highlighting the need for stronger flood preparedness measures.
