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QUETTA, Jul 18 (APP):Director General of Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Jahanzaib Khan, on Friday announced that comprehensive preparations were underway to mitigate potential disasters during the ongoing monsoon season.
Talking to APP, Jahanzaib Khan emphasized that the Balochistan government was fully committed to ensuring swift and effective emergency response across all vulnerable districts.
In light of recent heavy rainfall and changing weather patterns, the PDMA has activated district-level emergency teams chaired by Deputy Commissioners (DCs), with participation from key line departments, he said and added that these teams were tasked with leading rescue and rehabilitation efforts during flooding or other emergencies.
“The government has allocated funds to district administrations for handling rescue and relief operations, in several vulnerable districts ” Khan stated.
“The DCs, who also head District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) will the authority to utilize the funds in emergency during a crisis,” he added.
He said the DG confirmed that DCs have been authorized to hire private machinery for rescue operations, while PDMA’s own equipment will also be dispatched to flood-prone areas to ensure readiness.
Jahanzaib Khan highlighted that the Balochistan government has approved a comprehensive contingency plan on June 12, reflecting its proactive stance on disaster preparedness.
“The chief minister has been directed all district administrations to complete emergency preparations based on local weather forecasts,” he added.
“Relevant departments including District administration, Health, Irrigation, Police, Livestock and others have been instructed to remain on high alert to avoid any untoward situation. The PDMA has advised DDMAs to coordinate closely with these agencies to ensure the availability of emergency personnel, inventory and essential supplies at vulnerable locations. To bolster readiness, the PDMA has stockpiled relief items for over 300 families in each district. These include tents, blankets, groceries, fuel, and machinery, ensuring rapid deployment when needed”.
Jahanzaib Khan told the recent monsoon rains and floods have claimed 16 lives across Balochistan, including 5 men, 4 women and 7 children. Eight individuals have been injured, he said adding that additionally, 66 homes were either partially damaged or destroyed, and four public infrastructure sites sustained damage.
The DG confirmed he will personally oversee rescue and relief operations in affected districts. He also stated that food supplies will be provided on an emergency basis wherever needed.
District Commissioners have been directed to return any unused funds from relief operations and submit machinery back to PDMA offices for inventory and audit purposes. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has also commended the performance of PDMA during previous rains and floods, urged continued vigilance and efficiency. Protecting lives and property is our top priority. The government will provide all necessary resources to ensure effective disaster response, he affirmed.