Islamabad: The Emergency Response Committee (ERC), established by the Prime Minister to oversee national preparedness for Monsoon 2026, convened its sixth meeting today at the National Emergencies Operations Centre in Islamabad. Comprising eight Federal Ministers and chaired by the Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, the Committee continues to guide efforts to enhance preparedness and response across the country.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting was chaired by Professor Ahsan Iqbal via video link, with several Federal Ministers and senior officials in attendance. The Committee was briefed on an impending monsoon weather system expected to affect Pakistan from July 29 to August 5, 2026, potentially causing widespread rainfall and related flooding in various regions. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab have reported the highest casualties from weather-related incidents between June 26 and July 28, with 109 fatalities and 362 injuries nationwide.

Members of the Committee emphasized the necessity for continuous coordination among federal and provincial entities to ensure timely implementation of preparedness and response measures. They stressed the importance of early warning dissemination and public awareness to protect communities from monsoon hazards.

The Committee instructed all relevant departments to remain vigilant, ensuring the availability of emergency resources and services in vulnerable areas. Professor Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the importance of district-level coordination and directed provincial Chief Secretaries to participate in future meetings to enhance decision-making and preparedness efforts.

The Emergency Response Committee reiterated the Government’s dedication to safeguarding lives and infrastructure through coordinated actions during the monsoon season, with NDMA tasked with ongoing monitoring and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a unified response.