Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Saturday directed administrative and municipal authorities to stay on high alert as heavy rains are expected across the province, emphasising the need to protect both lives and property.

Presiding over a meeting, she instructed the Water and Sanitation Authority (WASA) to ensure the immediate removal of rainwater accumulated on streets and keep an eye on vulnerable structures.

The chief minister stressed the importance of keeping drains and stormwater channels clear to prevent flooding.

She also directed the irrigation department to ensure constant monitoring of water flows in canals.

The chief minister ordered that all manholes in both urban and rural areas be properly covered to prevent accidents.

Maryam Nawaz further instructed authorities to ensure safety measures at construction sites during rainfall, while ordering strict monitoring of dilapidated and vulnerable buildings.

She directed district administrations to issue timely alerts regarding the risk of roof collapses.

The chief minister said special arrangements must be made to maintain smooth traffic flow on major highways and main roads.

She instructed the Safe City Authority, traffic police offices and other relevant agencies to remain fully alert.

She also emphasised effective public guidance, communication, and traffic management systems, directing all field teams to remain fully prepared to respond to any emergency situation.