KARACHI: The Provincial Disaster Management (PDMAs) of Sindh and Balochistan have joined hands with the International Rescue Committee to promote resilience in the aftermath of floods.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is spearheading this collaborative effort, in partnership with the PDMAs of Sindh and Balochistan.
At an event, experts, officials, and stakeholders discussed vital topics related to climate change, emergency preparedness, and response.
Shabnam Baloch, Country Director, International Rescue Committee, delivered the opening remarks, setting the stage for a day of insightful discussions.
Ms Baloch underscored a pressing reality that resonates across the globe: the urgency of investing in climate-resilient interventions. She explained the unprecedented challenges Pakistan faces due to the ever-escalating threat of climate change.
She termed this threat as an immediate and tangible concern. She emphasized that the battle against climate change necessitates a collective effort, both nationally and globally. She stressed on the need of unity, cooperation, and concerted action to combat the challenges that lie ahead.
The event featured a panel discussion that delves into the needs and priorities within the provinces and districts, exploring strategies for resilience building and charting a way forward.
Jahanzeb Khan, DG PDMA Balochistan, remarked, “This collaborative initiative is a testament to the power of working together to address the challenges posed by climate change and disasters.
It’s inspiring to see NDMA, PDMAs, and the IRC coming together to find solutions that will protect our communities.” He further added, “A crucial lesson can be learned through the PDMA’s experiences: the need to prioritize infrastructure in contingency planning.
Climate change is a dynamic phenomenon, and its effects are becoming increasingly unpredictable and severe with each passing year. As a result, it is imperative to adapt contingency plans to account for these changing dynamics.
Infrastructure, including resilient buildings, transportation systems, and communication networks, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities during disasters.”
Mr. Abdul Qadir, the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Qambar, brought to light the critical necessity of relief activities in rural areas, particularly in the context of floods.
His statement underscores the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities during and after such natural disasters.
He emphasized Incorporating alternative livelihood strategies into flood relief activities not only addresses the immediate needs of affected communities but also contributes to their long-term resilience and sustainability.
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