ABBOTTABAD: A regional consultation workshop on the implementation of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Policy 2026-2030 was held in Abbottabad to identify district-level priorities and strengthen preparedness for natural disasters.
The workshop was chaired by Additional Commissioner Hazara Division Javed Iqbal and attended by PDMA Disaster Risk Management Adviser Ismail Yousafzai, Additional Deputy Commissioners from the eight districts of Hazara Division, officials from various departments and relevant experts.
The workshop aimed to consult key stakeholders and identify regional and district-level priorities, practical measures, institutional responsibilities, coordination mechanisms and resource requirements for reducing disaster risks and protecting communities.
The recommendations will be considered for inclusion in the five-year implementation plan of the provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Policy.
Participants reviewed potential natural disaster risks in different districts, existing arrangements, challenges and priority needs. They also presented proposals to improve preparedness before disasters, ensure timely response and reduce losses.
The participants stressed the need to include district-specific disaster risk reduction measures in the policy implementation plan, taking into account the geographical, climatic and local conditions of different districts in Hazara Division.
PDMA Disaster Risk Management Adviser Ismail Yousafzai briefed participants on disaster risk reduction and its effective implementation. He also explained the policy priorities, institutional responsibilities and proposed measures for reducing disaster risks.
Addressing the workshop, Additional Commissioner Hazara Division Javed Iqbal said such consultations play an important role in developing effective policies for disaster preparedness and risk reduction.
He directed the relevant authorities to take practical steps to strengthen disaster risk management, improve coordination among institutions and enhance the capacity of districts to respond to emergencies.
He stressed that advance planning, coordinated strategies and effective participation of all relevant institutions are essential to reducing disaster risks and protecting communities.
