Islamabad (Staff Reporter) :
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has formally approved the expansion and activation of the Civil Defence Department on a priority basis. As part of this initiative, Punjab Civil Defence now has the authority to inspect fire safety arrangements in hotels, marquees, and factories. In case of unsatisfactory safety measures, the department can impose fines ranging from Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 50 million.
This major announcement was made by Director Civil Defence Punjab, Mr. Zaigham Nawaz, during a ceremony held in Rawalpindi on August 14, 2025, to celebrate his presidential award of Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. He stated that the courts would seriously consider the challans (official reports) submitted by volunteers.
Mr. Zaigham Nawaz also revealed that 500 Civil Defence volunteers from Punjab are being deployed to flood-affected areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for relief efforts. Furthermore, recruitment of an additional 4,000 volunteers will soon begin, increasing the total number to 6,000. Most of these volunteers will be salaried, and preference will be given to those already serving. He also announced a pay increase for volunteers, from Rs. 17,000 to Rs. 34,000 per month.
The event featured a well-organized parade by the Rawalpindi District Civil Defence team, during which the Director hoisted the national flag. A display of the department’s latest equipment was also held at the Golf Club Marquee, showcasing technology such as drones capable of disabling enemy drones using magnetic interference, and ten robots recently acquired from the Ministry of Defence Production.
Additional Director General of Parks and Horticulture Authority, Khudae Madassar, also addressed the gathering, warning attendees to remain vigilant against corrupt elements within the department and to protect its reputation.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Chakala-based Warden Malik Usman was awarded Regional Warden badges. Caps and shirts were also distributed among the present volunteers.
These developments mark a significant step forward in transforming Civil Defence into a modern and technologically advanced institution, aimed at enhancing public safety across the province.
