PM Shehbaz orders stronger monsoon disaster preparedness

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to strengthen coordination with provincial governments and disaster management authorities to ensure an effective response to any emergencies during the ongoing monsoon season.

The instructions were issued during a meeting with NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, who briefed the prime minister on the country’s preparedness to deal with potential floods and other weather-related emergencies.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for close coordination among all relevant federal and provincial institutions to improve emergency response and minimize the impact of heavy monsoon rains.

The prime minister was informed about the measures being taken by the NDMA to enhance disaster preparedness, including contingency planning, resource mobilization and coordination with provincial disaster management authorities.

Officials also briefed the premier on progress in strengthening Pakistan’s early warning system, which is designed to provide timely alerts about severe weather conditions and help authorities respond more efficiently to potential disasters.

During the meeting, the NDMA informed the prime minister that cooperation with the Ministry of Climate Change is being expanded to improve weather forecasting, risk assessment and information sharing. The enhanced coordination aims to ensure that vulnerable communities receive timely warnings before floods or other emergencies occur.

Shehbaz Sharif stressed that protecting lives and property must remain the government’s top priority throughout the monsoon season. He directed all concerned departments to remain fully prepared and maintain constant communication to address any emergency without delay.

Pakistan frequently experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon months, with flash floods, urban flooding and landslides posing risks to several regions. Authorities have therefore intensified preparedness measures to reduce potential damage and improve emergency response capabilities.

The meeting reflects the government’s focus on proactive disaster management and the importance of coordinated efforts among federal and provincial institutions to safeguard communities during the peak monsoon period.