RAWALPINDI: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced financial aid of Rs500,000 each for the children and a woman injured in a recent lion attack in Lahore.
She said that keeping wild animals illegally will not be tolerated anywhere in the province. Acting on her orders, Punjab Wildlife Department has launched a major crackdown against the illegal keeping of lions.
Raids were carried out at 22 locations including Lahore and Gujranwala. Authorities recovered eight lions being kept without permits and arrested five people.
To regulate the keeping of wild animals, a special wildlife registration app has been introduced. So far, 584 lions and tigers have been registered through the app.
The Punjab government has also decided to enforce sterilisation of privately owned lions, tigers, leopards and other big cats. Wildlife officials said this step will help stop illegal breeding and trade, which pose risks to public safety. A complete ban on private buying and selling of big cats is also planned.
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Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi said this is the first time Punjab has introduced a legal framework to manage private ownership of big cats. Owners must declare their animals by May 2, 2025. So far, 180 breeding farms have declared their stock, now under verification.
These registered farms have also been given one month to upgrade their facilities as per official guidelines and SOPs.
So far, 18 big cats have been seized from illegal locations. Authorities have lodged seven FIRs and arrested eight individuals.
Flood Alert Issued Across Punjab
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed all departments to stay alert in case of flooding across Punjab, especially in District Attock due to rising water levels in the Indus River.
She ordered the district administration, police, Rescue 1122, and other departments to closely monitor river banks and evacuate residents from any dangerous areas. She stressed that all available resources must be used to save lives and protect property.
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CM Maryam said the flow of the river and condition of dams should be watched closely. Rescue teams must remain on standby with necessary equipment and boats. She also directed that people be kept informed about safety measures in advance.
Maryam Praises Stakeholders for Peace During Muharram
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz appreciated all departments and individuals who helped maintain law and order during Muharram-ul-Haram. She praised the efforts of provincial ministers, police, scholars, Pakistan Army and Rangers for ensuring peace and unity.
She noted that for the first time, provincial ministers were on ground for 10 days to personally supervise arrangements. She said the smooth handling of processions and services provided to mourners was an example of dedication and teamwork.
The CM lauded the arrangements of free food, drinks, and water sprinkling in the extreme heat, calling them commendable efforts.
Maryam Nawaz paid tribute to Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) on his 26th death anniversary. She said his bravery and sacrifice for the homeland will always be remembered and is a source of pride for the nation.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz appreciated the Dolphin Police Team for issuing a challan (fine) to her son, Junaid Safdar, calling it a sign of professionalism and equality before the law.
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