CM orders flood readiness

PDMA warns of urban flooding till July 1

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that timely evacuation of population should be planned in view of the possibility of floods and the people of the villages at risk should be informed about the places of accommodation and food distribution.

During a visit to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) head office, she said encroachments and obstacles in the streams should be removed. She said livestock should also be shifted in time in case of flood.

Meanwhile, The PDMA issued an alert across the province because of rains expected till July 1.

According to the Meteorological Department, a rain system accompanied by dusty winds would enter the country overnight.

The PDMA warned of potential urban flooding in Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Narowal and Rawalpindi, alerting the local administrations accordingly.

Heavy storms are anticipated in various districts with the possibility of hailstorm.

The authority protective measures for solar panels from storms.

The authorities in flood-prone districts were advised to clear the rivers and canals and urge the people not to cross them during rainy and flood conditions. Strict enforcement of laws prohibiting bathing in rivers and canals was also recommended.

The alert was aimed to ensure readiness and vigilance of the rescue agencies and drainage authorities.

Reviewing the preparations at the PDMA head office, the chief minister wondered, ”Early flood warning system is in use all over the world, why is it not known to Pakistan yet?” she wondered.

”In case of rains, immediate drainage of water should be ensured in every city. Wherever there is a risk of flood, early measures should be taken,” she underscored, stressing the importance of timely and authentic flood information.

The chief minister said encroachments should be removed from way of hill torrents and flood monitoring should continue round the clock.

She also visited the central control room of the PDMA and observed the Weather Portal, Flood Forecasting Division and Flood Simulation Model.

Earlier, the irrigation secretary, chief meteorologist and PDMA director general gave a detailed briefing on flood preparedness in the province.

“Due to the fear of possible floods, daily reports have been sought from most of the districts,” the CM was informed.

The officials said, “In view of the possibility of flooding, instructions are issued to inform the public of the evacuation plans in the affected areas.”

The chief minister was informed that normal to above average rains were expected in the country in te coming three months.

A report on the status of all barrages, link and main canals and the drainage system was presented in the meeting.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also visited the Walton Road to inspect the construction of drains and roads under a remodeling and upgradation project. She was informed that the construction of the drain had been completed and two disposal stations would also be constructed.

The chief minister ordered the officials concerned to solve public problems on the Walton Road before the monsoon.

Visiting Rajgarh to review a pilot project of the Lahore Development Model, the CM directed the authorities concerned that water should not pool for long after rain in the newly constructed model streets.

Lahore Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider informed the chief minister that the underground sewerage system in the model street had also been revamped and especially-made plastic covers placed on manholes.

Following the PMDA warning of urban and flash flooding, the Rescue 1122 began mock exercises to build its flood rescue capacity.

The PDMA asked the disaster response force to remain on high alert and have sufficient emergency personnel and equipment ready during the period.

The Rescue 1122 started mock flood rescue exercises, especially in the areas prone to be affected or affected in the past.

Rescue teams in Lahore conducted a mock exercise at Khera Bridge on BRB Canal. Teams of civil defence and the district administration also took part in the exercise along with over 60 rescuers and eight boats.

A rescue team also conducted an exercise at Ganda Singh Border in Kasur. Last year, a flood situation had been experienced in Kasur.