CM Maryam orders state of readiness over heatwave and urban flooding threat

LAHORE (Dunya News) – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has warned that temperatures could rise significantly during July, August and September, while urban flooding also remains a major concern, directing all relevant departments to maintain complete preparedness.

Chairing a meeting on monsoon preparedness, the chief minister said climate change is a reality and some cities could experience temperatures as high as 52 degrees Celsius. She added that above-normal rainfall has also been forecast for certain areas.

Maryam Nawaz said proactive measures are being taken to deal with monsoon rains and that the early warning system is being fully activated to ensure timely weather forecasts and emergency response.

She directed all departments to remain on high alert for possible flooding and instructed rescue and emergency services to continue conducting mock exercises to strengthen disaster preparedness.

The chief minister said lessons learned from last year's devastating floods had been incorporated into current planning, adding that arrangements had also been made to ensure adequate fodder supplies for livestock.

She further instructed authorities to issue timely public advisories regarding heatwaves and weather conditions, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure for elderly people, women and children during extreme heat.

Maryam Nawaz said Punjab had completed all necessary arrangements to tackle heatwave conditions, claiming that rainwater is drained promptly in the province, while, without naming any province, she remarked that floodwater remains stagnant elsewhere.

Referring to the recent Kahna tragedy, the chief minister announced that the "Apna Ghar, Mehfooz Ghar" programme had been launched to help prevent similar incidents. Under the scheme, residents across Punjab can apply for interest-free loans of up to Rs1 million to improve the safety of their homes.