Swimming Banned in 5 Punjab Districts Ahead of Monsoon

The divisional administration has directed the district authorities of Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum and Murree to impose Section 144 banning swimming and recreational activities in nullahs, canals, dams and other fast-flowing water bodies during the monsoon season.

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Rawalpindi Commissioner Abdul Aamer Khattak to review monsoon preparedness across the division. Deputy commissioners and officials from relevant departments attended the meeting.

The commissioner instructed all districts to establish control rooms to monitor flood-related situations and ensure emergency response mechanisms remain fully operational. He also directed civic agencies to complete geo-tagging of manholes and ensure they are properly covered in urban areas.

Authorities were ordered to complete the cleaning of storm drains, sewer lines and drainage channels, remove encroachments obstructing water flow and prepare plans for the evacuation of residents from low-lying areas if necessary.

Khattak also asked districts to submit their resource requirements to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and directed Rescue 1122 and Civil Defence to conduct regular mock drills to assess emergency preparedness.

The commissioner further instructed Wasa and other civic bodies to complete the cleaning of Leh Nullah and major drains before the monsoon season and ensure low-lying areas remain free of solid waste.