In an unprecedented move that marks a first in Pakistan's history, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has allocated personal funds to provide financial assistance to thousands of flood victims across the province.
Historic Allocation for Flood Relief
Provincial Minister for Health and Population Khawaja Imran Nazir confirmed on Wednesday that this represents the first time in the history of both Pakistan and Punjab province that a chief minister has allocated resources from personal funds for flood victims. The announcement came during the minister's visit to Chiniot district, where he observed the relief distribution process firsthand.
Transparent Distribution Process
The financial assistance program has already reached significant milestones, with 4,500 victims in Chiniot district receiving aid transparently. According to officials, the remaining 10,000 victims will receive their assistance soon, completing the coverage for all affected families in the district.
During his inspection of the flood rehabilitation centre established at the hockey stadium, Minister Nazir witnessed the distribution process and received a comprehensive briefing from Deputy Commissioner Chiniot Safiullah Gondal about the ongoing relief efforts.
Comprehensive Relief Infrastructure
The minister conducted a thorough review of the relief infrastructure, visiting the Bank of Punjab counters, health facilities, and ATM machines installed at the rehabilitation centre. He expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and personally interacted with flood victims to inquire about their access to food and drinking water.
Minister Nazir also participated in the distribution of ATM cards to beneficiaries, ensuring direct access to the financial assistance provided.
Systematic Damage Assessment
Explaining the methodology behind the relief distribution, the minister revealed that immediately after the devastating floods, a transparent door-to-door survey was conducted in all affected areas. This comprehensive assessment helped authorities accurately determine the losses suffered by residents, and the current financial assistance is being provided based on these survey reports.
In his media address, Minister Nazir emphasized that Maryam Nawaz Sharif has genuinely embodied the roles of mother, sister, and daughter toward the flood victims. He affirmed that the chief minister remains committed to ensuring that no flood victim is left without assistance, stating she "would not take rest until the last flood victim was provided with financial assistance."
The provincial minister concluded by acknowledging the positive role played by media representatives in covering the flood situation and relief efforts, thanking them for their responsible reporting during the crisis.
