CM Maryam Inspects Ravi River as Floods Grip Punjab

LAHORE (Web Desk) —  Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday visited the Ravi River at Shahdara, where she boarded a boat to review the flood situation firsthand.

Speaking to reporters after the inspection, the chief minister said that weeks of heavy rainfall had pushed water levels in all three major rivers to dangerous limits.

“I have never seen this much water in the Ravi River. Our rivers were under immense pressure. Had the government not acted in time, the damage could have been catastrophic,” she remarked.

Maryam praised the efforts of the administration and rescue agencies, stressing that no lives were lost due to negligence. She said more than 50,000 people and a large number of livestock had been safely relocated.

Reiterating her government’s commitment to relief and rehabilitation, the CM vowed to ensure compensation for all affected citizens. She also directed departments to prepare concrete plans for floodwater storage and drainage.

“Water is a blessing, but without proper systems, it becomes a threat,” she added.

Meanwhile, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed that at least 12 people have died during the ongoing floods. She said rescue operations, particularly by boats, were actively underway and that nearly 200,000 livestock had been shifted to safer areas.

Aurangzeb urged citizens to stay away from flood-hit zones and avoid approaching water channels for photos or selfies. She praised rescue teams and administrative staff for working round-the-clock, with some on duty continuously for up to five days.

She also acknowledged the role of media and the presence of elected representatives in relief operations.