PM orders NDMA to ensure roads stay open

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to take all necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow on link roads and bridges during heavy rains amid the possibility of flooding.

The prime minister issued the directives during a meeting with NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, who briefed him on preparations to deal with a possible flood situation.

During the meeting, the NDMA chairman informed the prime minister that relevant institutions had maintained effective monitoring throughout the monsoon season and taken precautionary measures to deal with potential weather-related emergencies.

He said all concerned departments and emergency response agencies were prepared to carry out rescue and relief operations in the event of an emergency.

Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed that every available resource should be utilised to provide maximum assistance and relief to the public during adverse weather conditions.

He specifically directed the NDMA to ensure that traffic remains operational on important link roads and bridges during periods of heavy rainfall. He also called for stronger coordination with departments responsible for transporting and distributing relief supplies so that essential assistance could reach affected areas without delays.

The prime minister further instructed the NDMA to maintain effective coordination with provincial disaster management authorities and other relevant provincial institutions.

He emphasised the need for close cooperation between federal and provincial agencies to ensure a timely response to any flood or weather-related emergency.

The directives come as authorities remain on alert over the possibility of flooding caused by heavy monsoon rains. The government has stressed preparedness, coordination and timely relief measures to minimise disruption and protect the public during extreme weather.