Punjab govt unveils airlift drone service for flood rescue

LAHORE: The provincial government of Punjab has launched an emergency airlift drone service to help in rescue and relief operations in flood-hit areas. The specially designed drone is capable of lifting and carrying a person weighing up to 200 kilograms.

Punjab Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi directed that the drone be immediately dispatched to Multan to help evacuate people stranded in the water. Prior to the deployment, the Civil Defence successfully conducted test flights over the Ravi River in Lahore.

Dr. Qazi further announced that the government would purchase 10 additional airlift drones in the near future, making Punjab the first province to establish such a service. He said that the Home Department is equipping the Civil Defence with modern technology and international standard training to strengthen emergency response.

“This drone service will allow us to rescue people from areas that are otherwise very dangerous or inaccessible,” he said.

Highlighting the role of civil defense teams, he said they provide vital assistance during floods and disasters by saving lives, protecting victims, livestock and goods, and ensuring the provision of food, shelter and medicine. He also revealed that over 4,000 citizens registered this week as Civil Defense volunteers through the government’s online portal.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Maryam Khan reported that de-watering work at Mohlanwal Theme Park is in progress. She said 17 de-watering machines and five cranes are in operation, along with temporary drains and engines placed at key points.

“So far, more than half of the floodwater has been cleared from low-lying areas of the park,” she added, following a visit to the site on the Chief Minister’s instructions.