ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Institute of Architects Pakistan (IAP) have explored institutional collaboration to promote disaster-resilient, climate-responsive and safer development across Pakistan.
A delegation from the IAP and its Rawalpindi-Islamabad Chapter (IAP-RIC), led by IAP President Ar. Fawad Suhail Abbasi, visited the NDMA to discuss opportunities for cooperation in disaster resilience, building safety, climate-responsive planning and resilient infrastructure.
The meeting comes amid growing concerns over the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events on Pakistan’s built environment. Recent monsoon-related impacts have once again highlighted the vulnerability of buildings and infrastructure, particularly in rural and low-income communities.
During the meeting, NDMA briefed the IAP delegation on its work relating to pre- and post-disaster infrastructure assessment, infrastructure auditing, resilience planning, disaster preparedness, early warning systems, rehabilitation and reconstruction.
The discussions also covered the Infrastructure Resilience Index (IRI) and infrastructure audit mechanisms, with participants examining how technical expertise, professional knowledge and international best practices could be integrated into efforts to strengthen vulnerable infrastructure.
The importance of incorporating disaster and climate risks into building design and development planning was also highlighted. Participants discussed the need for stronger construction practices, improved structural safety, effective drainage systems, regular maintenance and risk-informed approaches to development.
Recent incidents involving the collapse of roofs and walls in vulnerable rural settlements following heavy rainfall have further underscored the risks faced by communities living in poorly constructed or inadequately maintained buildings.
For Pakistan, where climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of several weather-related hazards, experts say strengthening the resilience of the built environment will be essential to reducing future losses and protecting communities.
Greater coordination between disaster-management institutions and architects, engineers and other built-environment professionals could help ensure that climate and disaster risks are considered from the earliest stages of planning and design through construction, maintenance and reconstruction.
The NDMA-IAP engagement represents a potential step towards stronger institutional coordination and the development of safer, more sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure in Pakistan.
Building resilience today can help create a safer and more sustainable Pakistan for tomorrow.
