LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has placed all commissioners, deputy commissioners, field officers and relevant agencies on high alert as monsoon rains begin across the province. She stressed that no negligence will be tolerated during the season.
The Chief Minister ordered immediate drainage of accumulated rainwater and continuous monitoring of WASA operations. District Emergency Operation Centers in all districts have been instructed to remain on alert. Besides that, authorities must clear water from low-lying areas and known choking points without delay, while maintaining continuous surveillance of storm drains and nullahs.
She also asked to make sure that rainwater must not be allowed to collect in urban localities, and teams from the Irrigation Department have been told to stay fully alert and monitor canal water flow at all times.
All manholes in urban and rural areas must be covered. Strict safety protocols are to be enforced during rainfall. Construction sites must have complete security arrangements, and dilapidated or sensitive buildings will be under special watch.
The Safe City Authority, CTO and other relevant institutions have been directed to ensure smooth traffic flow and provide timely guidance to citizens. All field teams must remain prepared to protect life and property.
In light of the monsoon and possible flood conditions across Punjab, the traffic police have also been placed on high alert. DIG Traffic Muhammad Waqas Nazir instructed all Chief Traffic Officers and District Traffic Officers to keep traffic arrangements fully effective throughout the rains and any flood situation.
He directed that traffic police maintain constant coordination with district administrations, Rescue 1122 and other agencies. Personnel posted in low-lying areas, underpasses and rain-affected zones are to remain especially vigilant. Citizens must be informed promptly about flood alerts, road closures and alternative routes. Traffic flow on major highways and all internal and external routes must be maintained. Where water accumulates on highways or in low-lying areas, traffic staff are to notify the concerned departments immediately and prioritize public safety while assisting citizens.
The provincial administration said all departments have been mobilized to minimize disruption and risk during the monsoon spell.
