Bilal Yasin Reviews Drainage Operations as Monsoon Rains Lash Punjab

By Muhammad Shahzad | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: Intermittent monsoon rains continued across Lahore and several districts of Punjab on Wednesday, prompting authorities to remain on high alert and intensify drainage operations to minimize public inconvenience.
Punjab Minister for Housing and Urban Development Bilal Yasin visited various parts of Lahore, including Lakshmi Chowk, to review rainwater drainage arrangements. He was briefed by the Commissioner Lahore, Deputy Commissioner and officials of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) on the prevailing situation and the measures being taken to ensure the swift removal of accumulated rainwater. WASA Lahore Vice Chairman Chaudhry Shehbaz Ahmad was also present during the visit.
The minister directed all relevant departments to remain fully mobilized and ensure immediate relief for citizens affected by the ongoing monsoon rains. He stressed that clearing water from low-lying areas should remain the top priority, with all available resources utilized to maintain smooth traffic flow and protect public safety.
Bilal Yasin said the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is committed to providing timely relief to the public during the monsoon season through coordinated emergency response efforts.
Officials informed the minister that the performance of drainage machinery, dewatering pumps and operational teams is being monitored continuously to ensure effective response. Director General WASA Punjab Tayyab Farid has instructed Managing Directors across all districts to remain in the field and closely supervise drainage operations.
He further directed authorities to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of disposal stations, generators and dewatering equipment, while strictly implementing the operational plan for the rapid clearance of rainwater during and after rainfall.
Bilal Yasin also urged citizens to immediately contact the relevant helplines in case of emergencies or drainage-related complaints. With above-normal monsoon rainfall forecast this season, the Punjab government is accelerating efforts to modernize and strengthen the drainage infrastructure across Lahore and other districts of the province.