By Our Correspondent
LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed all provincial departments to remain on high alert for the upcoming monsoon season, warning that rising temperatures, heavy rainfall and urban flooding could pose serious challenges during the next three months.
Chairing a high-level meeting on disaster preparedness, the chief minister reviewed weather forecasts and emergency response plans, stressing that climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events across Pakistan.
She said weather experts have predicted unusually high temperatures during July, August and September, with some parts of Punjab expected to experience temperatures approaching 52 degrees Celsius. At the same time, forecasts indicate above-average rainfall in several districts, increasing the risk of flash floods and urban flooding.
Maryam Nawaz instructed all relevant departments to complete preventive measures before the peak monsoon period and ensure that emergency teams remain fully prepared to respond to any crisis.
She emphasized that the provincial government is adopting a proactive strategy instead of waiting for emergencies to develop. According to officials, the early warning system has been activated to improve weather monitoring and provide timely alerts to district administrations and rescue agencies.
The chief minister directed Rescue 1122, district administrations, irrigation authorities, local government departments and health officials to coordinate closely throughout the monsoon season. She also ordered rescue teams to continue mock drills and emergency exercises to improve response times during floods and other natural disasters.
Officials informed the meeting that drainage systems in vulnerable urban areas are being inspected and cleaned to reduce the chances of water accumulation during heavy rainfall.
District administrations have also been instructed to identify flood-prone locations and ensure that machinery, rescue boats, pumps and emergency equipment are available wherever required.
Maryam Nawaz said the government has incorporated lessons learned from previous flood emergencies into this year’s preparedness plan. She noted that coordination among departments has been strengthened to minimize disruption to public life during severe weather.
The chief minister also reviewed arrangements for protecting livestock during floods, directing authorities to maintain adequate supplies of animal fodder and veterinary assistance in affected regions if needed.
Health authorities have been instructed to remain prepared for heat-related illnesses, while hospitals and emergency medical services will stay on alert during periods of extreme temperatures.
Maryam Nawaz urged citizens to take heatwave warnings seriously and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, particularly elderly people, children and women, who are considered more vulnerable to heat-related health complications.
She stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns and directed departments to issue regular weather advisories through television, radio, social media and other communication channels.
Officials said emergency control rooms will continue monitoring weather developments around the clock, enabling authorities to respond quickly if conditions deteriorate.
During the meeting, the chief minister also referred to the recent Kahna incident and announced the implementation of the “Apna Ghar, Mehfooz Ghar” initiative aimed at improving residential safety across Punjab.
Under the programme, eligible residents can obtain interest-free loans of up to Rs1 million to strengthen and renovate their homes, helping reduce risks associated with structurally unsafe buildings and weather-related damage.
Provincial officials briefed the meeting on ongoing efforts to improve coordination between disaster management agencies, municipal authorities and rescue services before the peak monsoon season begins.
The Punjab government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property by strengthening disaster preparedness, improving emergency response systems and ensuring timely assistance for communities facing weather-related emergencies.
Authorities have urged residents to remain informed through official weather updates and cooperate with local administrations during periods of heavy rainfall or extreme heat, emphasizing that public awareness and preparedness remain essential to reducing the impact of natural disasters.
