The Hyderabad administration has imposed a 30-day ban on swimming and bathing in rivers and canals across the division under Section 144, citing concerns over public safety and the risk of drowning incidents.
According to media reports, Hyderabad Commissioner Fayyaz Abbasi issued the order, covering recreational spots along the Indus River as well as all canals falling within the division’s jurisdiction. A formal notification has also been issued.
Under the directive, officers of the relevant police stations have been authorised to take legal action against individuals violating the ban. The restriction has been imposed as a precautionary measure to protect lives and property and prevent drowning-related accidents.
Commissioner Abbasi urged residents to strictly comply with the order and refrain from swimming or bathing at prohibited water sites throughout the 30-day period.
The administration has also appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities and follow the restrictions to help prevent accidents and safeguard lives.
Earlier, the Punjab Home Department officially declared Section 144 throughout the province and issued an official notification that during the monsoon season, certain activities will not be allowed as it is essential for the safety of public.
Swimming in dams, rivers, canals, ponds, and lakes has been banned, it is said in the notification. Unauthorised boating is also prohibited in dams, rivers, canals, ponds, lakes and distributaries. Furthermore, the use of rainwater that collects on streets, roads, open spaces or other public areas is not allowed.
The conditions will stay in effect for 60 days, and are being put in place given the current weather conditions to protect lives.
A spokesperson of the Punjab Home Department advises against people bathing in rainwater, especially in times of heavy rain, due to the risks it poses, especially to children and young people. The spokesperson also pointed out that water in dams, rivers, canals, ponds and lakes in Punjab is currently over the high level, thus swimming and boating are highly hazardous.
The spokesperson also added that this is the decision of the Punjab Home Secretary under Section 144, Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. District Administrations and police stations have been instructed to enforce the order strictly.
Heavy monsoon rains have resulted in large amounts of water in low lying areas and open spaces, which poses a serious risk for accidents and loss of life, the Home Department added.
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