Islamabad: Under the chairmanship of Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the newly formed National Disaster Response Committee convened its inaugural meeting to enhance emergency preparedness for the upcoming 2024 monsoon season. The committee focused on standardizing response plans across provincial disaster management authorities to bolster the country’s resilience to monsoon-related disasters.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister Iqbal directed the assembly, which includes representatives from relevant ministries and provincial governments, to protect vital infrastructure and establish adequate shelter spaces for livestock to mitigate the risks of urban flooding. The efforts aim to secure roads and communication networks against the impending monsoon threats.

Chairman NDMA, Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, emphasized the committee’s crucial role in reinforcing Pakistan’s disaster management capabilities. He advocated for stringent coordination among all stakeholders to ensure that the nation can respond promptly and efficiently to any emergencies that may arise during the monsoon period.

The committee also examined the current state of preparedness, evaluating resource allocation, early warning systems, and strategies for engaging communities. Additionally, it revisited previous disaster responses to identify weaknesses and scope for enhancement. The group agreed on the necessity of inter-agency communication, joint training exercises, and strategic resource deployment in vulnerable areas to facilitate a coordinated and effective response.

The Disaster Response Committee plans to continue its regular meetings to closely monitor progress and tackle any new challenges that emerge, maintaining a vigilant stance on disaster management throughout the monsoon season.