ERC reviews prevailing monsoon situation, weather outlook and national preparedness

Islamabad (Web Desk): The Emergency Response Committee (ERC) on Tuesday conducted a detailed review of the country’s monsoon situation, current hydrological conditions, weather outlook and preparedness during its 13th meeting at the National Emergencies Operations Centre (NEOC) at the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) headquarters in Islamabad.

The committee directed federal and provincial authorities to improve coordination, deliver early warnings without delay and keep emergency response resources fully prepared to protect communities facing heightened risks from the ongoing monsoon spell.

The meeting was convened on the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and chaired via video link by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal.

The meeting took place as the NDMA continued overseeing preparedness and coordinating the national response to weather-related emergencies during the 2026 monsoon season.

Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for Water Resources Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo, Punjab Minister for Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique, NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, representatives of provincial disaster management authorities, officials of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and senior representatives of relevant federal ministries and departments participated in the meeting.

The NEOC briefed the committee on the latest developments, providing an overview of weather forecasts, river flows, areas identified as vulnerable and the possible effects of the continuing monsoon system.

Provincial representatives subsequently updated the meeting on their preparedness arrangements, including the availability of rescue equipment, emergency supplies, evacuation strategies and coordination with district administrations.

The committee gave special attention to keeping communication systems operational, ensuring that weather and disaster warnings reach the public promptly, placing relief supplies and other essential resources in vulnerable areas beforehand and maintaining the readiness of emergency response agencies.

Professor Ahsan Iqbal instructed all relevant departments and response institutions to remain closely coordinated and ensure that agreed preparedness and response measures are carried out in a timely manner.

The committee also called for greater preventive action at the district level to reduce potential threats and protect vulnerable populations as the country continues to experience the 2026 monsoon season.