The Punjab Cabinet on Sunday reviewed the recent flood situation and preparations to deal with possible floods water being released by India in the Pakistani rivers, reported the 24NewsHd TV channel.
According to sources, Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi summoned an emergent meeting of the provincial cabinet to review the flood situation of the province.
The meeting was told that the water level is high in both the dams built by India on the Ravi and Sutlej rivers.
Punjab Irrigation Department Secretary while briefing the cabinet further stated that the dam built on the Ravi River is filled with 90 percent water while the dam built on Sutlej has over 70 percent water.
“More rains are expected in the catchment area of Ravi and Sutlej rivers, he said adding that the country is expected to receive “above average rainfall” during the ongoing monsoon season.
On the occasion, Chief Minister Naqvi directed that the inhabitants, along with the animals’ herd in the Ravi and Sutlej Rivers bed, should be shifted to safe places and timely supply of vaccines and medicines in the relief camp should be ensured.
The CM also ordered monitoring of the flow of water in the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers around the clock.
The relevant institutions should be kept informed about the arrival of water released by India.
Mohsen Naqvi also put the Irrigation Department, PDMA, Rescue 1122, and administration on alert to deal with any untoward situation.
The CM issued instructions to the commissioners of Lahore, Sahiwal, Multan, and Bahawalpur in this regard and said that in view of possible floods, the necessary safety arrangements should be completed as soon as possible
He ordered the irrigation department, all commissioners, and deputy commissioners should be alert all the time.
He said that all necessary measures should be taken under the approved plan to deal with possible floods.
Mohsin Naqvi directed to arrange the necessary equipment, machinery, and human resources in advance and said that negligence in arrangements will not be tolerated.
Commissioner Lahore and other Divisional Commissioners should ensure implementation of the plan in case of emergency, he said, adding that the administration should form mobile teams to deliver food and drink and medical facilities.
Provincial Ministers, Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police, Additional IG Special Branch, Chairman Planning and Development Board, and relevant officials attended the emergency meeting.
Reporter: Ali Ramay