QUETTA:
Amid greater flood threats during the monsoon, the Provincial Authority of Disaster Management (PDMA) Baluchistan has launched an emergency preparation plan throughout the province, with the objective of safeguarding lives and properties of possible floods and disasters related to rain.
Speaking to the application, the general director of PDMA, Jahanzaib Khan, confirmed that the Government had activated the District Disaster Management authorities, trained local administrations and stored vital relief supplies to respond quickly in vulnerable regions.
Khan emphasized that the Baluchistan government was completely committed to guaranteeing a rapid and effective emergency response in all vulnerable districts. The PDMA and the irrigation department have taken proactive measures to safeguard the channels and avoid flooding in the region, he said.
“In the light of recent heavy rains and changing climate patterns, PDMA has activated emergency equipment at the district level, chaired by attached commissioners (DCS), with the participation of key line departments,” he said.
Khan said these teams had the task of leading the main rescue and rehabilitation efforts during floods or other emergencies. He assured the immediate release of the disaster management funds and promised the deployment of heavy machinery owned by PDMA to the districts as necessary.
“The DCS, which also directs the District Disaster Management authorities (DDMA) will have the authority to use emergency funds during a crisis,” he said. He confirmed that the DCS had been authorized to hire private machinery for rescue operations, while the PDMA equipment will also be sent.
Khan stressed that the Baluchistan government had approved a contingency plan on June 12, which reflects its proactive position on disaster preparation. “The relevant departments, including district administration, police and others, have received instructions to remain on a maximum alert.
The PDMA has advised the DDMAs to coordinate closely with these agencies to guarantee the availability of emergency, inventory and essential supplies in vulnerable locations. To reinforce the preparation, the PDMA has stored relief items for more than 300 families in each district.
“These items include tents, blankets, edible, fuel and machinery,” he said, adding that food supplies would be provided where necessary. “The Government will provide all the necessary resources to guarantee an effective disaster response.”
He emphasized the need to guarantee the protection of the life and properties of people while maintaining the efficiency of interested departments and agencies during calamities. He said that the license of PDMA officials had been canceled and that all personnel were on maximum alert to respond to emergency situations.
