PM Shehbaz calls for coordinated plan to tackle climate risks

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan is among the nations most severely impacted by climate change and stressed the urgent need for preparedness and coordinated action.

He was speaking at a briefing given to him at the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in Islamabad today regarding the existing monsoon rains and flood situation in the country.

PM Shehbaz emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the Ministries of Climate Change and Planning with NDMA and provincial administrations.

He highlighted that such coordination is essential to devise an effective approach for minimizing the damages caused by the ongoing monsoon season.

PM Shehbaz assured that the federal government would extend full support to the NDMA, including providing all necessary tools and resources to enhance its operational capacity.

While acknowledging the work done so far, the prime minister praised the efforts of both the NDMA and the provincial governments in conducting relief and rescue missions across the country.

He expressed optimism that the provinces would further strengthen their own emergency response units by equipping them with modern technology and up-to-date gear to improve their overall effectiveness.

Earlier, briefing to the prime minister, NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik noted a significant increase in the intensity of this year’s monsoon rains—approximately 60 to 70 percent higher compared to the previous year.

He explained that Pakistan typically experiences around nine monsoon spells, but this year the number is likely to rise by an additional two or three.

Despite the increased rainfall, the NDMA chief confirmed that there is no immediate danger of major flooding, as all rivers in the country are currently flowing within normal parameters.

However, he did report that rain-related incidents have so far resulted in the loss of 178 lives and left nearly 500 individuals injured.