Commissioner chairs monsoon review meeting, orders strict contingency plan

RAWALPINDI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jul, 2026) Commissioner Rawalpindi Salman Ghani on Tuesday directed all relevant departments to maintain a high state of alert and execute comprehensive emergency management plans to safeguard human life and property ahead of the monsoon season.

He issued these directives while presiding over a high-level monsoon review meeting.

"Protecting human life and public infrastructure during the monsoon rains remains our topmost priority," commissioner said, emphasizing that all state institutions must operate under a seamless command and coordination system. He instructed that district control rooms, emergency helplines and field monitoring networks must remain operational round-the-clock.

During the meeting, all district administrations briefed the commissioner on their emergency preparedness, mapping of vulnerable low-lying areas, and machinery deployment plans.

The commissioner ordered targeted field operations against illegal encroachments along Nullah Lai and other natural waterways to prevent drainage blockages and urban flooding.

Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and local municipal bodies were directed to keep heavy machinery, de-watering pumps, rescue boats, ambulances, and emergency supplies fully functional.

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The Commissioner also ordered regular mock exercises to test institutional response capabilities.

Reviewing water storage capacity across regional reservoirs, the commissioner instructed authorities to continuously monitor dam water levels and issue timely public warnings before releasing spillway discharges. He also directed private housing societies, including DHA, Bahria Town, and developments along the Soan River, to install early warning systems and integrate their response plans with the district administration.

Addressing specific arrangements for Murree, the commissioner instructed local authorities to keep heavy earth-moving machinery, alternative traffic routing plans, and landslide emergency units functional at all times to assist tourists and residents.

Additionally, the Livestock Department was ordered to ensure the safe evacuation, fodder supply, and vaccination of livestock in flood-prone areas.

The meeting was attended via video link by all DCs of the division.

Senior officials from Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, the Livestock Department and regional development authorities were also present during the meeting.