Punjab orders clearance of flood zones, bans new constructions

Lahore: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a special meeting on post-flood management and directed authorities to clear all flood zones across Punjab within three months while strictly banning new construction in these areas. Officials said the move aligns with Supreme Court rulings restricting development in flood-prone zones. The meeting also approved proposals to build 17 mini dams and increase water storage capacity at Kalabagh and Sadhnai. Authorities discussed introducing inflatable dam technology and restructuring the Provincial Disaster Management Authority with eight new wings. Officials reported restoration of 563 kilometres of flood-damaged roads and rehabilitation of bridges and drainage systems as part of ongoing disaster preparedness efforts.