LAHORE, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 1st Aug, 2026) Punjab Minister for Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique on Saturday said the Punjab government has significantly enhanced the flood response capacity of Rescue 1122 by procuring state-of-the-art rescue equipment to tackle possible flood emergencies during the monsoon season.
Chairing a meeting to review monsoon preparedness, flood response measures and rescue capacity, the minister said the government had purchased modern jet skis, aluminum airboats, boat-carrying trucks, fiberglass boats, life jackets, surveillance drones, landing crafts, heavy-lifting drones, water rescue drones and advanced communication equipment for flood and rescue operations.
Secretary Emergency Services Department Dr. Rizwan Naseer gave a detailed briefing on recent monsoon-related emergencies, flood preparedness and the department’s operational readiness.
Khawaja Salman Rafique said that, on the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Rescue 1122 had been equipped with the latest flood rescue resources to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.
“May Allah protect us from flood situations, but our preparation should be complete,” he said, adding that instructions had been issued to ensure early warning systems in areas adjoining rivers in case of floods and heavy rainfall.
He stressed that providing timely, effective and safe rescue services to citizens during any emergency remained the government’s top priority.
Secretary Emergency Services Punjab Dr. Rizwan Naseer said that modern equipment, trained personnel and advance planning were key to conducting effective flood rescue operations. He added that the newly acquired resources had significantly strengthened the flood response capacity of Rescue 1122.
Dr. Rizwan Naseer and other Rescue 1122 officers attended the meeting through video link.
