Islamabad: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, convened a high-level meeting with Lieutenant General Imam Haider Malik, Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), to assess the country’s readiness for the impending monsoon season. The meeting focused on potential flood risks exacerbated by rising temperatures.
The NDMA chairman provided an update on temperature forecasts and flood projections, noting an expected increase in temperatures this year. Special consideration was given to the northern regions of Pakistan, where accelerated glacial melting could heighten flooding risks in the Indus River basin.
Discussions centered around the NDMA’s multi-tier early warning system, which includes seasonal, advisory, and confirmatory phases. This system aids in timely risk identification and mobilization of preventive actions.
Technical presentations were delivered on factors affecting South Asia’s monsoon season, including the land-sea temperature differential and sea surface temperatures. The importance of data-driven forecasting and inter-agency coordination in managing climate-induced disasters was emphasized.
In a joint side meeting, localized disaster mitigation strategies were scrutinized. The Federal Minister reiterated that climate adaptation serves as disaster mitigation, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts and joint funding between climate and disaster management agencies.
The parties also evaluated ongoing and incomplete mitigation projects. They agreed to conduct a formal review to identify challenges and establish a framework for timely project completion.
A follow-up coordination meeting is planned, bringing together the NDMA, District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), and relevant stakeholders. The aim is to ensure the swift execution of current initiatives and to plan future collaborations to enhance Pakistan’s climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination remains dedicated to proactive, evidence-based planning and institutional collaboration in addressing climate challenges.