Heavy rain swept through Lahore and several districts across Punjab on Monday night, providing much-needed relief but also bringing challenges. Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab issued a warning, instructing all departments to stay alert.
Irfan Ali Kathia, Director General of PDMA, directed Deputy Commissioners throughout the province to stay on high alert. He emphasized the need for readiness to handle any emergencies that might arise from rain. District Emergency Operation Centers across Punjab have activated their response plans, and PDMA control room is monitoring the situation continuously.
DG PDMA also instructed Rescue 1122 and other emergency services to keep their personnel and equipment ready. They must immediately drain water from residential areas to prevent flooding.
Monsoon rains are expected to continue until September 4. Residents should exercise caution, particularly around electric poles and hanging wires, to avoid accidents during the adverse weather conditions.
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Rain has affected major motorways, including M2, M3, and Lahore-Sialkot Motorway. Motorway Police reported slippages on the roads and urged motorists to drive carefully. Areas such as Prathokar, Kot Abdul Malik, Faizpura, and Sheikhupura experienced significant rainfall. The stretch from Lahore to Jaranwala on M3 has also been hit hard.
Overall, heavy rains have brought relief but also created conditions that require careful management. Authorities and residents must stay vigilant to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. Rain has also led to disruptions in local transportation and potential delays in daily activities, highlighting the need for effective coordination and timely response from all involved.