Likely torrential rains: CM asks departments to remain on high alert

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the line departments across the province to remain on high alert during torrential rains and ensure comprehensive measures for public safety and rainwater management.

The chief minister instructed authorities to ensure the timely drainage of rainwater and ordered continuous supervision and effective monitoring of Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) operations.

She also directed the uninterrupted monitoring of drains, rainwater channels and ordered the Irrigation Department to keep its teams fully alert and maintain constant surveillance of water flows in canals.

The CM Maryam further directed to ensure that all manholes in urban and rural areas are properly covered and emphasized that rainwater should not be allowed to accumulate in urban localities. The CM instructed all departments concerned to implement necessary precautionary measures during the rains. She ordered strict safety arrangements at construction sites to prevent any untoward incidents and called for special monitoring of dilapidated and structurally vulnerable buildings. District administrations have been directed to issue public alerts regarding the risk of roof collapses and take preventive measures to safeguard lives and property. To maintain smooth traffic flow during adverse weather conditions, the chief minister ordered special arrangements on major highways and key roads across the province.

She directed the Punjab Safe Cities Authority and Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) teams to remain fully vigilant.

She instructed field teams to remain fully prepared for public guidance, emergency response and the protection of citizens’ lives and property during the rainfall. “All relevant institutions must remain active, vigilant and responsive to ensure the safety of citizens and protect life and property across Punjab,” the Chief Minister said.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026