President Zardari directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial disaster management authorities (PDMAs) as well as provincial and local bodies to maintain close coordination and ensure timely dissemination of early warnings.
President directs coordinated efforts to protect lives, property amid intensifying monsoon rains
ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday directed all federal, provincial and local authorities to intensify coordinated preparedness, rescue and relief measures as the country enters a critical phase of the monsoon season, amid the heightened risks of flash floods, cloudbursts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), landslides, and urban flooding.
The president, in a statement, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of precious lives and damage to homes, infrastructure and property caused by the recent rains and related incidents, while extending his heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and expressed solidarity with all those affected.
He directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial disaster management authorities (PDMAs) as well as provincial and local bodies to maintain close coordination and ensure timely dissemination of early warnings.
He called for continuous monitoring of rainfall, river flows and water levels in upper catchment regions, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and directed downstream areas to make advance preparations for possible flooding.
President Zardari directed the authorities to pre-position rescue and relief resources, ensure the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure and take necessary measures to protect tourists and visitors in areas at risk from flash floods, GLOFs and landslides.
He emphasised that all relevant institutions must remain vigilant and ensure an immediate response wherever lives or property are at risk.
He urged the public to follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel to areas facing warnings of heavy rain, flash floods, landslides or other weather-related hazards.
The president expressed appreciation for the efforts of rescue workers and emergency personnel engaged in relief operations and prayed for the safety of the people across the country.
