Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan divisions are expected to be hit by a severe heatwave starting from today, with Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha also likely to experience soaring temperatures.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has alerted administrative authorities across the affected districts and appealed to the public to take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves from the extreme heat.
In a statement, Maryam Nawaz instructed that children, the elderly, and patients should avoid leaving their homes unnecessarily during peak heat hours. She further directed farmers to ensure adequate shade and an ample supply of water for livestock in view of the intense weather conditions forecasted.
The chief minister also urged residents to keep cool water accessible on rooftops for birds during the scorching heat.
In light of the heatwave, all government and private institutions have been ordered to suspend open-air activities until further notice. Additionally, school administrations have been directed to keep fans operational in classrooms and adopt a flexible dress code for students to help them cope with the high temperatures.
Furthermore, the authorities have been instructed to ensure the availability of first aid boxes in schools and other institutions.
Markets, which tend to be crowded, will be provided with shaded areas, water coolers, first aid counters, and ORS-mixed water to help prevent heat-related illnesses among shoppers.
Rescue 1122 and health services in the affected districts have been placed on high alert to respond promptly to any emergencies.
Transportation hubs including bus and wagon stands have been directed to provide shade, water, and mist fans for passengers.
In the Multan and Bahawalpur divisions, farmers have been specifically advised to take necessary precautions to protect crops and livestock from the adverse effects of the heatwave.
