Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif visited the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) to assess the ongoing monsoon challenges, receiving a comprehensive briefing from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on current damages, future risks, and measures being undertaken. The Prime Minister reviewed both the severity of the monsoon and the effectiveness of response efforts, while endorsing plans for stronger disaster management capabilities and international collaboration.
During his visit, Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, Chairman of NDMA, presented detailed updates on the adverse impacts of this year’s monsoon, which has been marked by significantly higher intensity and duration compared to previous years, with warnings that further escalation is possible. Although hill torrents caused some disruption, phased rainfall patterns helped prevent major casualties and losses. The NDMA’s media campaign was credited with raising public awareness and guiding protective actions among communities at risk.
Officials also briefed the Prime Minister on NEOC’s proposed Centre of Excellence, aimed at strengthening institutional disaster management. Additionally, progress was highlighted on a planned Pak-China facility under the Belt and Road Initiative’s International Monitoring and Coordination Centre (BRI-IMCC), reflecting a commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation in emergency preparedness and response.
Prime Minister Sharif commended the coordinated efforts of NDMA and provincial authorities, extended condolences to those affected by recent fatalities, and reiterated federal support for impacted communities. Approving the establishment of the NEOC Centre of Excellence and further engagement with Chinese partners, he issued directives to bolster NDMA’s human resources, conduct a National Infrastructure Audit for resilience, and deploy a technical team to investigate safety issues following a tourist incident in the Swat river.
In addition, the Prime Minister endorsed the creation of a Model Response Unit in Islamabad and encouraged NDMA to showcase its expanded capabilities once completed. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s disaster management infrastructure and readiness for future emergencies.
