RAWALPINDI: Anticipating a severe heatwave forecast in Punjab between May 21 and 27, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued detailed instructions to concerned agencies to mitigate the effects of extreme weather.
Director General of PDMA Irfan Kathia said that the threat of severe heat increased from May 21 to May 27. PDMA has urged various departments to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the public during this period.
In response, the Punjab Health Department was asked to cancel all permits for doctors and health workers to ensure access to full medical care from the PDMA. Hospitals have been ordered to set up special heatwave counters for the immediate treatment of heat-related diseases.
The Deputy Commissioner has been directed to ensure availability of heat wave prevention facilities in public places. In addition, a public awareness campaign was launched using phone numbers and newspaper announcements to educate the public about heatwave events.
Farmers have been specifically targeted in this effort, said PDMA, adding that there is a need to inform them about the potential effects of heat waves on crops. The Veterinary Education Center has been assigned to operate 24 hours a day and provide clean water supply to the animal market.
These steps are part of PDMA Punjab’s broader strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of heat waves and protect the health and livelihoods of people living in affected areas.
