Punjab steps up monsoon preparedness as authorities issue flood and safety alerts

LAHORE: Authorities in Punjab and northern regions have intensified preparations ahead of the monsoon season, with Lahore finalising emergency response plans, Murree imposing restrictions at hazardous water sites and Gilgit-Baltistan issuing fresh warnings about glacier melt-related risks.

A meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Muhammad Ali Ejaz reviewed Lahore’s readiness to tackle potential urban and river flooding. Senior representatives from the district administration, WASA, Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL), Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), Rescue 1122, the Irrigation Department and other agencies attended the session.

Officials assessed contingency plans, flood protection infrastructure and emergency response mechanisms.

The Irrigation Department and RUDA briefed participants on embankment protection measures, while WASA and MCL shared updates on drain-cleaning campaigns and water drainage operations.

WASA reported that 617 dewatering sets and 134 disposal stations were fully operational. MCL said 70 dewatering sets would remain on standby across the city’s nine administrative zones during the monsoon season.

Rescue 1122 presented its water rescue strategy and emergency response framework, while Civil Defence informed the meeting that 139 trained volunteers were prepared to assist in emergencies.

The district administration said continuous monitoring was being carried out along 38.95 miles of protective embankments in riverine areas, with safety arrangements completed for 35 settlements situated along the Ravi River.

Authorities have also designated 65 relief camps to provide immediate assistance and shelter to residents affected by any flooding incidents.