Punjab Has Plenty to Deliver, Which Bothers Some People: Uzma Bukhari

Lahore: Punjab Information Minister **Uzma Bukhari** said that the **Punjab government has a lot to accomplish**, and this is causing **discomfort to some individuals**. Speaking at a press conference at DGPR, she remarked, *“Those who can’t do anything themselves can only move their mouths — some poor souls are empty from the upper portion.”*

She stated that the **provincial cabinet meeting** was held today, where a **briefing on the recent floods** was given. “This was Punjab’s biggest flood. Despite high water levels in three rivers, the damage would have been far greater if the Punjab government had not been prepared,” she said, adding that **4.7 million people were affected**, but thankfully **no lives were lost to snake bites** during the disaster.

Bukhari added that **rainfall was 39% higher than normal**, and the **entire cabinet expressed disappointment** that when Punjab — being the largest province — faced hardship, some people **used the situation for political gain** instead of showing solidarity.

She noted that **the loss of life in this flood was half that of the 2010 floods**, and due to proper planning in **25 districts**, major issues were avoided, though **2 districts faced difficulties**.

The minister further said that an **assessment of damages** is ongoing, and the **salaries of Civil Defence employees have been increased by Rs 15,000**. Additionally, **17 tehsils have been designated for flood drills**, and residents living in flood-prone areas will be **asked to relocate outside the flood belt**.

Commenting on criticism of Punjab’s governance, Bukhari said, “The Chief Minister is distributing laptops to students and inaugurating bus services. The Punjab government has a long list of achievements, which seems to disturb some people. They ask, ‘Where are the 90,000 houses?’ Well, these houses are not for sale — and those who can’t do anything themselves just keep talking.”