LAHORE: Punjab Health Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee for Disaster Management, Khawaja Salman Rafique, has instructed the administration to expedite the completion of drainage arrangements along the routes of upcoming Muharram processions in anticipation of rains.
Emphasizing the importance of de-silting, he underscored the need for proactive measures to mitigate the risks of urban flooding.
In a meeting held at the Secretariat Durbar Hall on Thursday, the health minister, along with Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rahman, highlighted the necessity for protective measures during Muharram processions, considering the potential severity of weather conditions. They directed officials to identify and address any suspicious buildings along the procession routes and advised the public to avoid congregating on dilapidated roofs.
The meeting, attended by key officials including the DG PDMA, reviewed emergency supplies provided to forces and rescue teams in light of possible flood threats. The DG PD
MA delivered comprehensive briefings on de-silting efforts, potential flood risks, river erosion prevention schemes, and the current weather outlook for Muharram. The Cabinet Committee examined eight schemes focused on preventing river erosion, with the Irrigation Department reporting on their implementation progress.
Notable attendees included Additional Chief Secretary SMBR Nabil Javed, Secretary Irrigation, Additional IG Chaudhry Sultan, Secretary Communication, and other senior officers. Commissioners and DCs across the province participated in the meeting via video link, ensuring a coordinated and informed response to the anticipated challenges.