Gilgit Baltistan: In a significant initiative to improve disaster readiness, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in conjunction with various local and humanitarian agencies, has initiated a comprehensive two-day simulation exercise. The drill, which encompasses scenarios such as Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and landslides, aims to enhance disaster response mechanisms and interagency coordination in the disaster-prone region of Gilgit Baltistan.

According to Press Information Department, the simulation exercise was inaugurated by Mr. Raza Iqbal, Senior Director of NDMA, who acted as the Chief Controller. The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the National Anthem, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. Mr. Tanveer Piracha, Executive Director of NDMA’s Think Tank, highlighted the organization’s proactive approach and operational framework in his speech, while DG GBDMA, Shuja Alam, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in disaster response due to the region’s vulnerability.

The exercise is a collaborative effort involving the NDMA’s Gender and Child Cell, the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), line departments, and several humanitarian stakeholders including UN agencies, NGOs, the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), local authorities, and community representatives. Participants engaged in scenario-based mock drills that simulated a high-risk GLOF and landslide event, leading to flash flooding, significant infrastructure damage, evacuations, and search and rescue operations.

The objectives of this local simulation exercise (SimEx) include enhancing interagency coordination, strengthening communication, testing and refining contingency plans, identifying gaps in disaster management, and fostering community awareness and resilience. The NDMA’s commitment to conducting such powered local simulation exercises is expected to significantly contribute to disaster risk reduction in Gilgit Baltistan, ultimately aiming to save lives, reduce damage, and promote sustainable development in the region.