Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Saturday praised the relentless efforts of district commissioners, police, rescue teams, and the Pakistan Army in mitigating the flood devastation, directing authorities to take proactive measures to help victims.
Speaking at a meeting with district commissioners at the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) headquarters, she directed members of the provincial assembly to visit their respective constituencies and personally contact people to find out if they are getting the required assistance and aid.
“We have witnessed remarkable team work in Punjab,” she stated, acknowledging the combined efforts of the Army and various agencies that helped save over 600,000 lives.
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The chief minister mentioned that the province faced the worst flood crises due to continuous rains and the release of water from neighbouring India. However, the timely evacuation of residents was a remarkable achievement by the combined rescue teams.
She said relief efforts for flood victims were underway around the clock, adding that the largest rescue operation in Pakistan’s history had been carried out in Punjab.
She added that continuous rainfall had worsened the situation, prompting the largest rescue operation in Pakistan’s history. More than 450,000 livestock were rescued and relocated to safe areas, he said.
Maryam expressed appreciation for the relentless work of the authorities, stating that not only were lives saved, but more than 450,000 animals had been rescued as well.
She also underscored the need for preventive measures in areas at risk, stressing that even forced evacuations should be carried out when necessary to save lives.
To ensure the safety of animals, she instructed that boats be replaced with rafts to transport cattle more effectively.
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The chief minister also called for the construction of temporary shelters, proper sanitation facilities, and the utilisation of school buildings as relief camps.
“In Punjab, the government is accountable to the people. We must reach out to those in need, rather than waiting for them to call for help,” she asserted, urging authorities to maintain a compassionate approach.
The chief minister praised the efforts of local officials, particularly the deputy commissioner of Narowal, for prompt cleaning of the Kartarpur Gurdwara, which faced heavy flooding.
