Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has said that all the deaths during the monsoon rains occurred due to natural calamities, not because of government negligence. “We experienced record rainfall, but the damage has been relatively low. We had taken preventive measures for the monsoon,” she stated.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited the PDMA (Provincial Disaster Management Authority) headquarters, where she was given a detailed briefing on the flood situation and ongoing rescue operations.
She was also informed about the safety protocols and equipment, and personally observed the early warning system in action. During the visit, she praised the relentless efforts of all rescue teams and emphasized that providing immediate relief and ensuring the safe evacuation of victims must remain the top priority.
The briefing revealed that in three flood-affected districts of Punjab, 1,063 people trapped in floodwaters were safely rescued. On average, trapped individuals were transported to safe locations within 23 minutes. In Jhelum, 160 people were rescued via helicopter, Rescue 1122 evacuated 174, and the Pakistan Army relocated 64 individuals to safer areas.
In Rawalpindi, 6 people trapped in floodwaters were rescued using helicopters, while Rescue 1122 saved 450 lives.
Speaking on the occasion, CM Maryam Nawaz said, “I personally monitored the entire relief operation yesterday. It was an emotional moment for me when a newborn baby was saved and handed over to the parents. Wherever boats are needed, contact PDMA.”
“No lives were lost due to government or institutional negligence. Everyone fulfilled their responsibilities with commendable efficiency. Rescue agencies should begin preparations for the upcoming monsoon spell starting today,” she said.
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“We are living in a technological age. Keep the public informed in real time. Get into the field and try to directly ease people’s suffering.”
“I do not want to see standing rainwater anywhere—this is the responsibility of commissioners and deputy commissioners. I want to commend PDMA and rescue services. Our crops are being destroyed; prepare lists of affected areas so we can provide financial assistance to the farmers later. We are standing with the public and focused on helping them.”
She added, “Rainwater is now being drained within hours. Officers need to spend more time in the field.”
The Chief Minister said torrential rains hit Jhelum and Chakwal, but roads were cleared quickly. “Residents of private housing societies cannot be left at the mercy of developers. It is the DCs’ responsibility to instruct housing managements to take necessary actions.”
She concluded by saying, “The situation of Nullah Lai was under control this time. A brief evacuation was required for a few hours only.”