Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) hosted the inaugural meeting of the Disaster Response Committee (DRC) today, aiming to enhance intergovernmental coordination and response strategies ahead of the 2024 monsoon season. The committee, recently established by the Prime Minister, focuses on preparing for monsoon-related emergencies, emphasizing improved communication and resource deployment across federal and provincial levels.
According to Press Information Department, the meeting was convened to establish a unified approach to disaster management, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming monsoon season. Chaired by Mr. Ehsan Iqbal Chaudhry, Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, and convener of the committee, the session involved discussions on current preparedness, allocation of resources, early warning systems, and strategies for community engagement. NDMA Chairman, Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, highlighted the importance of the DRC in bolstering the national disaster management framework, stressing the need for comprehensive readiness and swift action.
Key topics during the meeting included enhancing inter-agency communication, conducting joint training exercises, and strategically positioning resources in vulnerable regions. The attendees, which included senior officials from NDMA, Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), and representatives from the humanitarian sector, also evaluated contingency plans and previous disaster responses to refine strategies and reinforce best practices.
The Minister underscored the importance of robust coordination among all stakeholders, urging provincial governments to prepare shelters for livestock and address urban flooding risks by controlling encroachments. He also called for the protection of critical infrastructure such as ICT, roads, and communication networks against potential damages. Instructions were issued for PDMAs to develop standardized response plans to ensure effective management during disasters.
The DRC is set to meet regularly to monitor progress and tackle any emerging challenges, with NDMA leading the coordination efforts and ensuring alignment with the national disaster management policy.