Punjab to Regulate Private Rescue Boats Amid Flood Crisis
The Punjab government has announced that all private boats operating in flood-affected areas will now be regulated and their operational costs covered by the state. The decision came after reports surfaced of flood victims being charged for transport to safe locations.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari, speaking at a press conference in Lahore, confirmed that the move aims to prevent exploitation of people already facing immense hardship. “No flood victim will be left unattended or forced to pay for safety,” she said.
Bukhari revealed that the Assistant Commissioner of Jallapur Pirwala, a tehsil of Multan, was removed after irregularities were discovered in rescue operations. He has been replaced by Mukarram Khan.
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Highlighting relief efforts, she noted that more than 2.2 million people have been shifted to safer areas and 139 boats are actively operating in Multan alone. She also reassured that flood conditions at Head Muhammad Wala and Sher Shah are under control, with no plans to breach embankments.
On commodity prices, Bukhari said wheat rates had dropped by Rs700 per maund, directing strict action against profiteering and hoarding. She warned shopkeepers to display official flour rates or face penalties.
The minister stressed that relief efforts remain the government’s top priority, dismissing criticism of inaction. “Punjab is fighting one of the toughest natural calamities, and our focus is on rescue, not politics,” she asserted.
