The Punjab government has ratified a Rs 500 million upgrade package for the Civil Defence Department. This initiative marks a significant change in how the province plans to tackle emergencies and promote public safety.
The decision was taken during the 27th meeting of the Standing Committee of Cabinet on Law and Order. The move comes in reaction to the escalating concerns over regional tensions and increasing threats to public safety. With this initiative, the government aims to bring relevant upgradation to the province’s crisis management systems, ensuring quicker and more effective and accurate responses to emergencies.
As per the official documents revealed by the Punjab Finance Department issued on May 10, the funding will be given via a technical supplementary grant under the Internal Security Fund.
A major portion of the amount—Rs 460 million—has been kept aside for the purchase of state-of-the-art operational equipment.
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This includes
- Mine detectors
- Snake cameras
- Bomb blankets
- Electric sirens
- Modern fire extinguisher sets
Which will likely to equip frontline responders with the tools they deem need for to operate safely and efficiently during high-risk scenarios.
In addition to equipment, Rs 40 million will be allocated towards upgrading the department’s IT infrastructure. This will improve communication, data management, and coordination among emergency response units across the province.
One of the most important step of the overhaul is not just about technology and equipment—it’s also about the masses. Punjab Home Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal has launched an ambitious campaign to recruit one million Civil Defence volunteers from all over the province.
The major goal is the establishment of a strong network of trained citizens ready to act during emergencies, ranging from natural disasters to security incidents.
The strategy of investing in both high-tech resources and human capital—reflects a forward-looking approach to governance and disaster management. The government hopes that by strengthening both the technological and human aspects of civil defence, it can build a more resilient and responsive emergency framework for the people of Punjab.