CM orders round-the-clock monsoon monitoring, enhanced public safety measures

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jul, 2026) Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday said the Punjab government’s proactive monsoon management strategy had ensured the clearance of rainwater from flood-hit districts within hours, as authorities intensified emergency response measures across the province amid continuing heavy rainfall.

According to a statement, the establishment of Water and Sanitation Agencies (WASAs) in 41 districts, supported by more than 1,000 machines and operational staff, enabled the rapid drainage of accumulated rainwater that would otherwise have taken days or even weeks to clear.

On the chief minister’s directions, rivers, dams and barrages across Punjab are being monitored round the clock through Safe City cameras, while district authorities have been instructed to ensure comprehensive safety arrangements around rivers, canals, rain-fed streams and low-lying areas.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz urged the public to avoid bathing in or visiting canals, rivers and seasonal streams during the ongoing monsoon season and any potential flood situation. She also directed district administrations to closely inspect weak and dilapidated buildings and advised citizens to stay away from structures vulnerable to roof collapse.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab issued a monsoon flood situation fact sheet, stating that rainfall was recorded in most districts during the last 24 hours and that rainwater was cleared in the shortest possible time despite heavy downpours.

<?php /*?> <?php */?>

According to the PDMA, the highest rainfall was recorded in Gujranwala (250 mm), followed by Sialkot (139 mm), Mandi Bahauddin (138 mm), Narowal (117 mm), Hafizabad (85 mm), Chakwal (70 mm) and Okara (64 mm). Gujrat received 49 mm of rainfall, Jhang 35 mm, Layyah 33 mm and Jhelum 32 mm.

The authority reported that water levels stood at 57 per cent in Tarbela Dam, 38 per cent in Mangla Dam and around 30 per cent in the Bhakra, Thein and Pong dams.

The PDMA reported 17 people had lost their lives and 107 others had sustained injuries in rain-related incidents during the current monsoon season. Of the fatalities, 12 resulted from the collapse of old and dilapidated buildings, two from lightning strikes and three from electrocution. It added that the injured were receiving the best possible medical treatment.

The chief minister also directed the authorities concerned to ensure timely compensation for the families affected by rain-related incidents and reaffirmed her government’s commitment to protecting lives and property through effective disaster management and coordinated emergency response.