LAHORE: Punjab has finalized a strategy to mitigate the impacts of an intense heatwave and potential flooding, mobilizing relevant departments and instructing district administrations to complete preparatory measures. According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif led a meeting to assess readiness for climate-related risks, where she connected with the provincial administration via Zoom to issue directives.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of preemptive action, asserting that true governance lies in preventing disasters. She highlighted infrastructure projects, including the completion of embankments at Jalalpur Pirwala and Alipur, and the development of the Noor Raja Bhatta embankment. The government has restored flood-damaged irrigation infrastructure and modernized the irrigation monitoring system.

A new 48-kilometer embankment is under construction in the Ravi Urban Development Authority area. The government has mapped livestock across Punjab, ensuring fodder, clean water, and vaccination availability. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority’s central and district control rooms are operational, with a focus on a coordinated government response to emergencies.

The Chief Minister warned of potential heatwave conditions, with temperatures possibly reaching 55 degrees Celsius in southern regions. She outlined measures such as public advisories, fodder arrangements, and simulation exercises for emergency response, while urging citizens to take precautions against extreme heat. The government has enhanced rescue capabilities, including the deployment of drones, boats, and emergency supplies, and has introduced the “Apna Ghar Mehfooz Ghar” scheme to aid in home reinforcement.