Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has said that the current flood situation in the province was unexpected. Speaking to the media in Shahdara, she stated that rivers received more water than their capacity. She emphasized that despite the pressure on three major rivers, no lives were lost due to administrative negligence.
Maryam Nawaz shared that over 50,000 people were safely evacuated from flood-hit areas. She promised full support and compensation for those affected. She also warned that homes built in water channels would be removed. “We did not expect this level of water,” she said, calling it a major challenge.
She noted that Narowal is fully submerged, and Gujrat and Sialkot are also facing serious conditions. However, she praised the efforts of district commissioners, civil defense, and rescue agencies. “The administration responded well, and I appreciate their service,” she added. She said their actions helped prevent major tragedy.
The Chief Minister remarked that she had never seen this much water in the Ravi River before. She stressed the need to improve infrastructure and build more dams. “Water is a blessing from God, and we must store it,” she said. According to her, better water storage systems are now more important than ever.
Maryam Nawaz has directed all departments to create plans for water harvesting. She said floodwater and rainwater must be stored efficiently. She urged quick planning and action to avoid future disasters. “We need structures that protect and benefit us in times like these,” she concluded.