PDMA readies plans for flood emergency

Balochistan activates district disaster management authorities

QUETTA:

Amid heightened flood threats during ongoing monsoon, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Balochistan has launched a province-wide emergency readiness plan, aiming to safeguard lives and property from potential flooding and rain-related disasters.

Speaking to APP, PDMA Director General Jahanzaib Khan confirmed that the government had activated district disaster management authorities, empowered local administrations, and stockpiled vital relief supplies to respond swiftly across vulnerable regions.

Khan emphasised that the Balochistan government was fully committed to ensuring swift and effective emergency response across all vulnerable districts. The PDMA and the Irrigation Department have taken proactive measures to safeguard canals and prevent flooding in the region, he said.

"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.

Khan said that these teams were tasked with leading rescue and rehabilitation efforts during flooding or other emergencies. He assured immediate release of the disaster management funds and pledged the deployment of PDMA-owned heavy machinery to the districts as needed.

"The DCs, who also head district disaster management authorities (DDMAs) will the authority to utilise the funds in emergency during a crisis," he said. He confirmed that the DCs had been authorised to hire private machinery for rescue operations, while PDMA's own equipment will also be dispatched.

Khan highlighted that the Balochistan government had approved a contingency plan on June 12, reflecting its proactive stance on disaster preparedness. "Relevant departments including district administration, police and others have been instructed to remain on high alert.

The PDMA has advised the 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 items include tents, blankets, groceries, fuel, and machinery," he said, adding that the food supplies would be provided on an emergency basis wherever needed. "The government will provide all necessary resources to ensure effective disaster response."

He stressed for the need to ensure protection of lives and properties of the people while maintaining efficiency of the concerned departments and agencies during calamities. He said the leave of the PDMA officials had been cancelled and all personnel were on high alert to respond to emergency situations.