By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: On the directives of Prime Minister, Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik visited the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) to review preparations and assess the region’s readiness for the ongoing monsoon season.
During the visit, the NDMA chairman examined district-wise preparedness measures and reviewed arrangements for dealing with possible weather-related emergencies in vulnerable areas of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The briefing covered early warning systems, rescue and relief capabilities, evacuation plans and coordination mechanisms for flash floods, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), landslides and riverine flooding. Officials informed the chairman about the steps taken to improve response capacity and reduce risks during the monsoon period.
Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik stressed the importance of timely implementation of contingency plans to ensure an effective response in case of any emergency. He directed authorities to ensure that relief supplies were pre-positioned in high-risk areas so that affected communities could receive immediate assistance.
The NDMA chairman also highlighted the need to strengthen public awareness campaigns, particularly in remote and vulnerable valleys where communities faced greater exposure to natural hazards.
He instructed the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority to maintain close coordination with district administrations and all relevant departments to ensure a swift and organized response during any disaster situation.
Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik appreciated the efforts of the provincial disaster management authorities and assured them of NDMA’s continued support in improving preparedness and building resilience against hydro-meteorological threats.
The visit came as part of the national disaster management strategy to strengthen coordination among federal and provincial institutions and minimize the impact of monsoon-related emergencies across vulnerable regions.
