In response to relentless monsoon rains and escalating flood risks across Punjab, the provincial government has imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for 45 days, effective until August 30, 2025.
The notification explicitly imposes bans on all forms of swimming in rivers, dams, canals, ponds, lakes, and distributaries across Punjab. Additionally, bathing in accumulated rainwater on streets, roads, open spaces, or public places is prohibited. Unauthorized boating in any water body, including rivers, dams, canals, ponds, lakes, and distributaries, has also been outlawed.
These restrictions aim to prevent tragic accidents amid rising water levels and hazardous conditions triggered by unprecedented rainfall. Violators of these measures will face legal action under the CrPC, with authorities directed to enforce compliance strictly.
The decision comes as Punjab grapples with severe flooding, particularly in Rawalpindi, where water levels in Nullah Lai reached 20 feet at Katarian and 19 feet at Gawalmandi, prompting evacuation alerts. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported record-breaking rainfall, with Chakwal receiving 423 millimeters in just 10 hours, leading to a declared rain emergency. Across Punjab, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported 63 deaths and over 290 injuries in rain-related incidents in the past 24 hours alone, with house collapses and drownings cited as primary causes.
READ MORE: Punjab Rains: 63 Dead & Over 290 Injured in 24 Hours
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has declared a rain emergency in multiple districts, urging residents to avoid water bodies and cooperate with local authorities. “The safety of our citizens is paramount. These restrictions under Section 144 are critical to preventing further loss of life during this extreme weather event,” she stated.
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