Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced plans to increase Pakistan’s water storage capacity as a strategic response to India’s controversial actions regarding the Indus Water Treaty. This decision is part of a broader effort to enhance the country’s disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience.

During a visit to the National Emergency Operations Centre in Islamabad, Mr. Sharif instructed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to collaborate with provincial disaster management bodies. The aim is to prevent tragedies like the recent incident in Swat, which resulted in the loss of 49 lives and injuries to many others.

Mr. Sharif emphasized the importance of comprehensive reporting on such incidents. He commended the NEOC’s capabilities and pledged government support to further strengthen the institution.

To bolster infrastructure resilience, Mr. Sharif has directed Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Minister for Climate Change Musadik Masood Malik to seek grants and investments through public-private partnerships, rather than relying on loans.

Addressing water security, Mr. Sharif criticized India’s actions concerning the Indus Water Treaty. He announced Pakistan’s decision to build water storage facilities independently, focusing on non-controversial projects.

Highlighting the country’s vulnerability to climate change, Mr. Sharif noted that Pakistan faces increasing threats from cloudbursts and glacial melting, despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse emissions. He stressed the need for heightened preparedness in response to these environmental challenges.