Field Formations Activated to Protect Roads, Bridges from Urban Flooding

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: The Punjab Communication and Works (C&W) Department has initiated pre-emptive measures ahead of the monsoon season, activating field formations to safeguard roads, bridges, and related infrastructure from potential urban flooding.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Provincial Minister for Communications and Works Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharth. The meeting was attended by Secretary C&W Raja Jahangir Anwar, Special Secretaries, Additional Secretaries, and Chief Engineers, while Superintending Engineers (SEs) and Executive Engineers (XENs) joined virtually.
Officials briefed the minister on the rehabilitation of roads damaged by last year’s floods, informing the meeting that restoration work had been completed at a cost of Rs16 billion.
Addressing the participants, Minister Bharth directed all concerned authorities to complete preventive arrangements for urban flooding and possible flood emergencies during the upcoming monsoon season without delay.
He instructed officials to ensure the availability of water drainage facilities, including pumps, backup generators, and additional machinery required for emergency response.
The minister further directed Chief Engineers, SEs, and XENs to personally inspect bridges, culverts, and drainage systems within their respective jurisdictions and ensure their proper maintenance and cleanliness.
Emphasizing the need for swift action, Bharth ordered that all flood preparedness measures be completed within 15 days and instructed officers to remain actively present in the field rather than operating from offices.
He also stressed the importance of close coordination with all relevant departments to ensure effective management of urban flooding and timely emergency response during the monsoon season.