The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province, banning swimming, boating and other public activities in dams, rivers, canals, ponds, and lakes until August 20.

Ongoing torrential rains, threats of flash flooding, and landslides have put lives across the province at risk.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department on Thursday, the decision has been taken to protect human lives amid worsening weather conditions and rising water levels.

The ban also extends to bathing in rainwater accumulated in streets, roads, open spaces, and other public areas.

Unauthorised boating in dams, rivers, canals, lakes, and distributaries has also been strictly prohibited.

The notification states that due to the ongoing monsoon spell, low-lying areas and urban streets have seen a significant accumulation of rainwater, increasing the risk of drowning incidents.

Water levels in Punjab’s rivers and reservoirs are currently high, making swimming and boating extremely dangerous.

The provincial home department has directed all administrative and law enforcement agencies to ensure strict implementation of the order.

Public awareness campaigns have also been ordered to inform citizens about the enforcement of Section 144.