As heavy monsoon rains continue to batter Punjab, the provincial government has imposed Section 144 and introduced a 60-day ban on swimming, unauthorised boating and bathing in rainwater accumulation areas. The precautionary measure aims to prevent accidents as floodwaters and water levels continue to rise across several districts.
According to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department, the restrictions aim to protect lives during the ongoing monsoon season. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid flooded areas and rising water bodies until weather conditions improve.
Section 144 Enforced Across Punjab
Under the latest order, bathing in rainwater collected on streets, roads, open spaces and other public locations has been prohibited.
In addition, swimming has been completely banned in dams, rivers, canals, ponds and lakes across the province.
The notification also prohibits boating in dams, rivers, canals, ponds, lakes and distributaries without prior permission from the relevant authorities.
The Home Department stated that the restrictions have been imposed under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, to minimise the risk of accidents during the monsoon season.
Heavy Rains Raise Safety Concerns
According to the Punjab Home Department, continuous rainfall has caused significant water accumulation in low-lying areas and open spaces.
At the same time, water levels in dams, rivers, canals, ponds and lakes have increased considerably.
These conditions have heightened the risk of drowning and other water-related accidents. Therefore, the government has decided to introduce preventive measures across the province.
Authorities Warn of Serious Risks
Officials have warned that swimming, boating or bathing in rainwater during the current weather conditions can be extremely dangerous.
The Home Department said children and young people are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to enter flooded areas or swollen water bodies.
Authorities have urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and discourage children from approaching dangerous locations during the monsoon season.
District Administrations Ordered to Ensure Compliance
The Punjab Home Secretary has directed all district administrations and law enforcement agencies to ensure strict implementation of the Section 144 order.
Officials have been instructed to monitor compliance and take appropriate action wherever violations are reported.
The government believes effective enforcement will help reduce preventable accidents during periods of heavy rainfall.
Public Awareness Campaign Also Launched
Alongside enforcement measures, the Home Department has instructed the relevant authorities to launch a public awareness campaign.
The campaign will inform citizens about the newly imposed restrictions and highlight the dangers of entering flooded streets, rainwater accumulation areas and swollen water bodies.
Officials hope that greater public awareness, combined with strict enforcement, will help protect lives throughout the monsoon season.
The restrictions will remain in place for the next 60 days as authorities continue monitoring the weather across Punjab. Meanwhile, residents have been urged to follow official safety guidelines and stay away from flooded areas until monsoon conditions improve.
