Lahore [Pakistan], July 19 (ANI): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Saturday announced financial assistance of PKR 5 million for the families of those who lost their lives in recent rain and flood-related incidents across the province, ARY News reported.
Since June 25, at least 109 people have died and 745 others have been injured due to record-breaking rainfall that has caused widespread flooding and destruction in Punjab, according to Rescue 1122 data cited by ARY News.
During her visit to flood-affected Chakwal, CM Maryam conducted an aerial survey by helicopter to assess the extent of the damage. She inspected submerged homes, washed-out roads, and collapsed bridges, and issued immediate directives to expedite rehabilitation and reconstruction work.
The Chief Minister personally reviewed the severely damaged Dhuman Bridge on the Jhelum-Sohawa Road—an important connection between Chakwal and Jhelum—and instructed authorities to reopen it for light traffic within two days by installing a temporary steel structure, ARY News reported.
Speaking at the Chakwal Deputy Commissioner’s Office, CM Maryam stated, “Families of individuals who died due to roof collapses and landslides will receive PKR 5 million in compensation.” She added that four families in Chakwal affected by landslides would each receive PKR 1 million.
To ensure timely delivery of aid, CM Maryam tasked local lawmakers and the deputy commissioner with personally handing over compensation cheques to the victims’ families, ARY News noted.
In view of continued monsoon rains, the Chief Minister ordered the reactivation of the Civil Defence Force across Punjab and instructed that volunteers receive enhanced emergency response training. She also directed that residents of vulnerable mud houses be evacuated and relocated to relief camps or government facilities.
“Natural disasters are beyond human control—life and death are in the hands of Allah,” CM Maryam said, commending the efforts of government institutions. She added that no deaths in Punjab occurred due to administrative negligence, noting that the fatalities were caused by drowning, roof collapses, and electrocution.
Looking ahead, CM Maryam called for long-term disaster preparedness based on lessons learned during this monsoon season and instructed authorities to compile detailed reports on damages to buildings and crops for future planning. (ANI)
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