Punjab CM checks on earthquake victims

Says destroyed bridges will be reconstructed as soon as possible

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar visited Mirpur on Wednesday to express solidarity with those affected by the earthquake.

He called on AJK Prime Minisrer Raja Farooq Haider and extended his sympathies to him over the loss of people’s lives and properties. He said that the Punjab government stands with the bereaved families and all resources are available to help those affected by the earthquake.

Helping the people is my duty, he said. He extended his full cooperation for relief and rehabilitation activities. He maintained that destroyed bridges will be reconstructed as soon as possible.

Similarly, the restoration of Upper Jhelum Canal will be carried out on a priority basis. The chief minister also visited DHQ Hospital Mirpur and inquired about the health of the injured citizens. He proposed that seriously injured patients may be referred to hospitals in Punjab for better treatment facilities. “Our Kashmiri brethren will be treated free-of-charge and would be taken care of properly,” he said.

Speaking to the media on the occasion, Buzdar said that Kashmiris should not consider themselves alone during this difficult time. He announced that the Punjab government will provide food hampers, tents and other relief goods to the victims of the earthquake.

Earlier, the CM was given a detailed briefing about the financial and human loss due to the earthquake in Jhelum and adjoining areas at a briefing at Mangla Cantt.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 26^th, 2019.