On the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Director General PDMA Umar Abbas Mela visited Sialkot district, where he reviewed in detail the arrangements made to deal with drainage, urban flooding and possible flood situation after the recent record rainfall. Deputy Commissioner Sialkot Owais Mushtaq, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Abbas Zulqarnain and Assistant Commissioner Safdar Shabbir also accompanied him during the visit. The DG PDMA visited the District Emergency Operation Center, Nala Bhid and Head Marala, where he was given a detailed briefing regarding the preparedness of the district institutions, response mechanisms and emergency measures. On this occasion, DG PDMA Umar Abbas Mela said that the protection of lives and property of citizens is the top priority of the Punjab government. He directed all the concerned departments to remain on full alert, ensure their presence in the field, timely drainage of rainwater, continuous monitoring of rivers and streams and deal with any emergency effectively. He said that the Punjab Chief Minister has clear instructions that there is no room for negligence or irresponsibility. In view of the forecast of heavy rains in Gujranwala division including Sialkot, all the concerned institutions are on high alert and all safety measures including drainage are being continuously monitored.
