PM calls for increased response to meet climate change challenges

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Wednesday called on improvising disaster management strategies based on experience and developing an efficient and effective mechanism in line with best international practices.

Chairing the 5^th meeting of National Disaster Management Commission, the prime minister said that climate change, coupled with various other factors has increased the frequency of disasters, and therefore require higher level of preparedness and institutional response to meet these challenges.

The meeting reviewed the progress on decisions of the previous NDMC meetings, and also ratified provision of relief and aid to friendly countries in various disasters. It was also approved to place NDMA under the Prime Minister’s Office.

It also approved compensation of over 104 million rupees to the victims of firing along the Line of Control by Indian forces.

The meeting approved the Pakistan School Safety Framework which will serve as a model for the provinces to ensure safety and disaster risk reduction.

It also approved a proposal cohesive disaster management legislation and institutional framework through merger, repealing or reconfiguring existing laws and organisations related to disaster management.

It was decided to create a pilot project model National Disaster Response Force in the federal capital level by utilising the human resource available with other disaster and relief management organizations.

The meeting decided to strengthen aviation wing of interior ministry to provide support to NDMA during rescue and relief operations

Chairman NDMA Lt. Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat presented an overview of disaster management context, evolution, achievements and challenges faced by the organization.

He also apprised about the contributions of NDMA towards providing relief and rescue efforts during emergencies in various foreign countries.