Lahore: The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has launched a comprehensive monsoon preparedness campaign ahead of the upcoming rainy season.
According to WCLA sources here on Thursday as part of this initiative, WCLA had completed a detailed structural survey of buildings across the Walled City of Lahore to identify properties that may pose a threat to public safety during heavy rains.
Based on the findings of the survey, formal notices have been issued to the owners of dangerous and dilapidated buildings, directing them to immediately undertake the necessary repair and strengthening of their structures.
Property owners have been advised to carry out all essential repairs at their own expense to ensure that their buildings remain structurally safe throughout the monsoon season.
Those who are unable or unwilling to undertake the required repairs have been directed to vacate the unsafe buildings immediately in order to prevent any loss of life or property resulting from possible structural failure.
In addition, WCLA had advised all residents and property owners within the Walled City to ensure that rooftops, rainwater drainage systems, gutters and downpipes remain fully functional and free from obstruction throughout the monsoon period.
Sources said, “Proper maintenance of these systems is essential to prevent water accumulation, seepage and structural deterioration of buildings.”
The Authority has also reiterated that no unauthorized construction, addition of floors, structural alterations, excavation, extensions or modifications to heritage buildings or other properties within the Walled City shall be carried out without obtaining prior approval from WCLA. Such unauthorized activities not only violate heritage conservation regulations but also increase structural vulnerabilities during adverse weather conditions.
The Walled City of Lahore Authority DG, Najmus Saqib stated that the protection of human life remains the foremost priority of the Authority.
He said that preventive measures taken before the onset of the monsoon season are essential to minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of residents living within the historic city.
He further emphasized that preserving Lahore’s rich architectural heritage must go hand in hand with protecting the lives of the people who reside within these centuries-old neighborhoods.
The Director General urged all citizens to cooperate with WCLA by complying with the issued notices, carrying out timely repairs, maintaining proper drainage facilities, and observing all safety instructions issued by the Authority.
The Walled City of Lahore Authority remains committed to implementing the vision of the Punjab government by ensuring public safety, protecting the city’s unique cultural heritage, and adopting proactive disaster risk management measures to minimize the impact of the upcoming monsoon season.