ISLAMABAD, Aug 7: Emergency Response Committee (ERC) held its 12th meeting at the National Emergencies Operations Centre (NEOC) in Islamabad on Friday to review the prevailing monsoon situation, hydrological risks and national preparedness, with federal and provincial authorities directed to maintain heightened readiness and ensure a swift, coordinated response to emerging emergencies.
The meeting, held on the directions of the Prime Minister and chaired through video link by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal, brought together Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik, Minister for National Food Security and Research, Federal Minister for Water Resources Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Chairman NDMA Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, representatives of Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and senior officials from relevant federal ministries and departments.
The committee conducted a detailed review of the country’s evolving monsoon situation, current hydrological conditions, weather outlook and emergency response arrangements.
The National Emergencies Operations Centre presented a comprehensive situational briefing covering the latest weather forecasts, river flows, vulnerable locations and anticipated impacts of the ongoing monsoon spell.
Provincial authorities briefed the committee on their preparedness measures, including the availability of rescue resources, emergency stockpiles, evacuation plans and coordination with district administrations in vulnerable areas.
The meeting placed particular emphasis on maintaining uninterrupted communication, ensuring the timely dissemination of early warnings, pre-positioning relief supplies and keeping emergency response agencies on high alert in vulnerable districts.
The chair directed all concerned departments and agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure the timely implementation of preparedness and response measures in view of the evolving monsoon situation.
The committee stressed the importance of proactive measures and rapid information sharing to minimise risks to lives and property in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall, flooding and other weather-related emergencies.
The public was advised to follow official weather and emergency advisories, avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas during periods of heavy rainfall and remain updated through the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App and official communication platforms of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
