On the directions of the Prime Minister, a meeting was chaired by Secretary to the PM on Thursday to review the performance of Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), particularly the existing mechanism of the department.
The Met department gave a presentation regarding its existing capacity of timely forecasting of monsoon and changes in weather. The meeting was also briefed about the efficacy of existing radar system working round the clock. It was informed that some radars are getting obsolete and it is difficult to get them repaired because of the redundant technology. The meeting agreed to go for the best quality radar from the international market. The department was asked to submit a comprehensive project document, along with financial costing for the approval of the competent authority.
It was also agreed that the Met department will regularly share weather forecast with all the provincial governments, and will also disseminate the same through media to mitigate the risks. It was agreed that PMD, Federal Flood Commission and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will effectively communicate with each other in real time for better coordination.
The participants of the meeting were told that the government is fully committed to providing all adequate resources to strengthen the meteorological department through the provision of equipment, quality human resource and operational independence.
NDMA Chairman Maj Gen Muhammad Saeed Aleem briefed the meeting that NDMA is ready with all its stock for any untoward eventuality during floods. The chairman also apprised the meeting that he is in contact with all the provincial disaster management authorities and fully aware of all their existing stocks for flood relief.
The meeting was attended by Climate Change Secretary, Aviation Secretary, NDMA Chairman, PMD Director General, Federal Flood Commission Chairman and senior government officials.
