De-Watering Drive Progresses Under CM’s Watch: DG Irfan Ali

APP

Islamabad: Director General (DG) PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia Friday highlighted that under Chief Minister Punjab’s directions, a full-scale response has been launched to tackle the flood-like conditions triggered by the third spell of monsoon.

He said that repeated de-watering operations are in progress to clear all urban areas across Punjab within 48 hours and no loss of life has been reported.

In an inclusive conversation with a local news channel, Irfan Ali Kathia said that all departments across the province are on high alert to deal with the ongoing flood-like situation caused by the third spell of monsoon rains.

He mentioned that field workers and emergency teams are working around the clock to ensure public safety and minimize any disruptions.

“Our teams are in the field day and night, closely monitoring vulnerable areas and responding swiftly to water accumulation and urban flooding,” he added.

Under the direction of Chief Minister Punjab, all available resources are being utilized, including helicopters for rescue and relief operations.

DG Kathia emphasized that the coordinated efforts between departments are aimed at protecting lives and property and so far, no precious life has been lost during the current monsoon spell.

He said that before the arrival of the fourth monsoon spell, which is predicted by the Met Office to begin from July 21, all waterlogged areas and main arteries will be cleared.

Special focus is being given to cities like Jhelum, Okara, Rawalpindi and Chakwal, which were among the most affected during the third monsoon spell, he added.

In response to a question, he said that clearing standing water is the top priority at the moment, especially in low-lying and urban areas where water accumulation poses health and safety risks.

He assured that field teams are working around the clock to ensure quick drainage and restore normalcy in the affected regions.

He further added that the Chief Minister has directed all relevant departments to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential medicines and food to residents in the impacted areas.

“No one will be left unattended the government is fully committed to protecting both lives and livelihoods,” he emphasized.

He said that helicopters are being utilized wherever needed, citing Jhelum as a key example where aerial support played a crucial role in relief and rescue operations.

To another query, he said that all provincial departments and NDMA are working in close coordination, providing mutual support and hand-holding with sister agencies to ensure an effective and unified response.