Punjab Information and Archives Minister Azma Bukhari on Wednesday clarified that the provincial government has not imposed any ban on private organizations or individuals distributing food among flood-affected families. In a statement, she explained that the only condition is for food supplies to be inspected and approved by the Punjab Food Authority and the respective district administration before being handed out. This step, she said, was taken after complaints emerged about substandard food being provided in some areas. Bukhari emphasized that the regulation is not meant to obstruct relief activities but to ensure the safety of vulnerable citizens, particularly as flood-stricken regions face heightened risks of illness and contamination due to the prevailing conditions.
The minister stressed that preventive measures are essential to protect communities already struggling with the impact of the floods. Rejecting what she termed “false propaganda,” she accused critics of attempting to exploit the situation for political point scoring instead of supporting relief efforts. She assured that the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is fully committed to standing with affected families. Bukhari noted that the Chief Minister has been personally visiting flood-hit districts to monitor operations, offer reassurance, and strengthen coordination for timely relief delivery. She reiterated that the government’s focus remains on protecting public health while ensuring that aid reaches victims efficiently and without compromise.
