ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday directed federal, provincial and local authorities to strengthen coordinated preparedness, rescue and relief efforts as Pakistan enters a critical phase of the monsoon season, with increasing threats of flash floods, cloudbursts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), landslides and urban flooding.
In a statement, the president expressed profound grief over the loss of lives and damage to homes, infrastructure and property caused by recent heavy rains. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and expressed solidarity with those affected by the extreme weather.
President Zardari instructed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), provincial disaster management authorities (PDMAs), and other relevant agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure the timely dissemination of weather alerts and early warnings.
He called for continuous monitoring of rainfall, river flows and water levels in upper catchment areas, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while directing authorities in downstream regions to make advance preparations for potential flooding.
The president also ordered authorities to pre-position rescue teams and relief supplies, safeguard vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure, and take special measures to ensure the safety of tourists and visitors in areas vulnerable to flash floods, GLOFs and landslides.
Emphasising the need for vigilance, President Zardari said all relevant institutions must remain fully alert and ensure an immediate response wherever lives or property are under threat.
He urged citizens to follow official weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel to areas facing warnings of heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides or other weather-related hazards.
The president also commended rescue workers and emergency personnel for their dedication in relief operations and prayed for the safety and well-being of people across the country.
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