Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed federal and provincial authorities to intensify preparations for the upcoming monsoon season, ordering the establishment of a national emergency response mechanism. He stressed that coordinated action is essential to mitigate the growing risks posed by climate change.
High-Level Meeting on Monsoon Preparedness
Chairing a high-level meeting to review monsoon preparedness and climate resilience, the prime minister said Pakistan remained among the countries most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. He emphasized that effective and comprehensive cooperation between the federation and the provinces was critical to address climate-related disasters.
The prime minister approved the formation of an 'Emergency Response Committee' headed by the Minister for Planning and Development. The committee, comprising the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and representatives of relevant federal ministries, will work in close coordination with provincial authorities. It will hold weekly meetings throughout the monsoon season to monitor preparedness and response efforts, according to a press release from the PM Office Media Wing.
Advance Funding for Disaster Response
The prime minister also asked the Minister for Finance to complete advance arrangements for an emergency fund that could be mobilized in the event of severe monsoon-related disasters. This proactive measure aims to ensure rapid response without delays in fund allocation.
Danish Schools and University Projects
In a separate development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed relevant authorities to expedite completion of Danish Schools across Pakistan. He announced that a technology campus of Danish University would be established in Muzaffarabad, describing the education initiatives as a major investment in the country's future.
Chairing a review meeting on the progress of Danish Schools and Danish University, the prime minister termed these institutions as among the country's most important national assets. The expansion of Danish Schools aims to provide quality education to underprivileged students, while the new tech campus in Muzaffarabad is expected to boost higher education and technological skills in the region.
