LAHORE: “World Drowning Prevention Day raises awareness about the importance of taking precautions,” said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in her message on the occasion on 25-July-2025.
She said, “The theme of this year’s Drowning Prevention Day, organized by the WHO, is ‘Anyone can drown, but no one should drown’. Water is a symbol of life, but if not taken seriously, it can also lead to death.”
“Millions of people around the world lose their lives each year due to failure to take drowning risks seriously, she said, adding, “Drowning in canals, rivers, flood drains, or the sea can be prevented through caution. The recent drowning incidents in floodwaters are deeply painful and alarming.”
She said, “There is a complete ban on bathing in canals, lakes, and rivers across Punjab. Warning signs and monitoring systems are being implemented to ensure this ban is effective. Rescue 1122 teams are fully mobilised to save lives from drowning.”
She also appealed to parents to prevent children from bathing in flooded drains, canals, and rivers, saying, “Please pay attention to alerts issued by the Meteorological Department and local administration to avoid entering dangerous areas.”
The chief minister also launched the Chief Minister Agriculture Internship Programme Phase-II, a unique initiative for young agriculture graduates. Under the programme, 2,000 agriculture graduate interns will receive a monthly stipend of Rs60,000.
She said, “Students pursuing B.Sc. Agriculture and B.Sc. (Hons.) Agricultural Engineering are eligible for the internship. They can submit applications at the office of the Deputy Director Agriculture (Extension) in their respective districts.”
She said, “The Agricultural Helpline 0800-17000 is also active for queries related to the internship programme. A fixed quota for B.Sc. Agriculture and B.Sc. Agricultural Engineering graduates has been allocated in each district.”
Published in News Daily on 26 July 2025.
