Punjab drainage projects curb monsoon flooding: Maryam

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said drainage projects carried out across the province have helped reduce the impact of monsoon rains.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said drainage projects carried out across the province have helped reduce the impact of monsoon rains.

She said areas that previously remained submerged for days, weeks or even months were now seeing rainwater cleared within hours.

The chief minister made the remarks during a meeting with Punjab Assembly members from Vehari. The meeting reviewed development schemes, political matters and initiatives aimed at improving public services in the district.

Maryam said the Punjab Development Programme was promoting more balanced development across the province. She added that the government was focusing on projects designed to address long-standing problems faced by residents.

According to the chief minister, improved drainage infrastructure had made a noticeable difference during the current monsoon season. She said the government was working to ensure that heavy rainfall did not cause prolonged water accumulation in populated areas.

Maryam also highlighted several initiatives for farmers and students in southern Punjab. She said farmers were benefiting from the Kisan Card programme, while students were receiving laptops and Honhaar Scholarships.

The Vehari lawmakers appreciated the government’s development work in the district. They particularly highlighted the reconstruction and expansion of the Vehari-Multan Road.

The lawmakers said the previously narrow and deteriorated road had been transformed into a modern dual-carriageway. They described the project as an important development for the region.

They said residents of several districts would benefit from improved connectivity between Vehari and Multan. The upgraded road is expected to facilitate travel, transportation and commercial activity in the area.

The lawmakers also welcomed the launch of an electric bus service connecting Vehari with Burewala and Tibba Sultanpur. They said the service had provided residents with a new public transport option.

Free travel facilities for students, women and senior citizens were also appreciated during the meeting.

The MPAs further said development schemes worth around Rs21 billion had been initiated in Burewala, Mailsi and Vehari. They described the projects as a major step towards improving infrastructure and public facilities in the region.

They also pointed to the beautification of Vehari Rail Bazaar, saying the project had helped improve the appearance and overall environment of the city.

Separately, Maryam Nawaz praised security forces for their recent operation against militants in Balochistan.

She commended the personnel for their efforts and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. According to the information shared by the chief minister, 15 terrorists were killed during the operation and a significant quantity of weapons was recovered.