The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert in the Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiat, and Pothohar regions in view of the possibility of severe cold and snowfall till January 16.
According to the PDMA, advance letters have been sent to the relevant departments, including Tourism, Education, Health, Agriculture, Local Government, Forest, C&W, Transport, Rescue 1122, National Highways, and Police, to deal with any emergency situation.
DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said that the intensity of fog and smog is also expected to increase in the next few days. He directed educational institutions to make students aware of proper clothing to protect them from cold and to ensure safety arrangements in classrooms.
He said that all hospitals, and especially basic health units, should ensure the availability of medicines and staff so that immediate facilities can be provided to patients affected by cold.
The DG PDMA appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel, use masks, and not ignore the severity of the weather. Tourists have also been advised to take precautionary measures and follow government instructions.
According to meteorologist Dr. Haris Mahmood,
“Currently, cold air pressure is increasing in northern Punjab, due to which the chances of snowfall and heavy fog are not uncommon; citizens should avoid taking unnecessary risks.”
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