In a groundbreaking step for disaster management, the Punjab government has introduced Pakistan’s first airlift drone service to assist in rescue operations across flood-affected regions. The innovative drone is capable of carrying a person weighing up to 200 kilograms and relocating them to safer areas.

Drone Technology Tested in Lahore

According to officials, the Civil Defence Department successfully conducted test flights of the drone in Lahore before its deployment to flood-stricken areas of Multan and southern Punjab. This pioneering technology marks a significant upgrade in the province’s disaster response strategy.

The Interior Secretary of Punjab emphasized that the government has decided to purchase 10 additional drones for Civil Defence to enhance the efficiency of ongoing and future rescue efforts. “It is the first of its kind airlift drone service in Pakistan, designed to reach inaccessible and high-risk areas where conventional rescue methods are limited,” he stated.

Strengthening Civil Defence Capabilities

The secretary highlighted the crucial role played by Civil Defence during natural disasters. “Our personnel are the frontline soldiers who risk their lives to save others during floods and calamities. With drone technology, their capacity to respond has been significantly improved,” he noted.

He further added that more than 4,000 volunteers have registered in just one week to join the Resilience Force, an initiative aimed at mobilizing community participation in emergency response. Citizens can register through the official portal at VCD.HOME.GOP.PK.

A Game-Changer for Rescue Operations

The deployment of airlift drones is being hailed as a game-changer for rescue operations in Punjab. Experts believe that such technology can not only accelerate evacuations during floods but also reduce risks faced by first responders.

By combining traditional rescue strategies with advanced drone technology, Punjab is setting a precedent for modern disaster management across Pakistan.