The National Disaster Management Authority(NDMA) has launched a comprehensive campaign to spread awareness to minimise the human and material losses, keeping in view the forecast of 15 to 20 per cent more rains this year by Pakistan Meteorological Department.
In an interview with Radio Pakistan, NDMA Chairman Major Asghar Nawaz said the Authority organised a conference of stakeholders in the first week of June and briefed the participants on steps needed to be taken to cope with the impacts of rains.
Nawaz said besides spreading awareness through mass media, the NDMA regularly publishes updates on its website for public awareness. The NDMA chairman said monsoon comes every year in Pakistan and people of low-lying areas are usually aware of the dangers of floods. However, the campaign started by NDMA is part of further efforts to sensitise the general public.
Responding to a question, he said provincial and district disaster management authorities work in collaboration under the guidance of the NDMA. He said, “We guide these authorities on how to seek help of the Army, law enforcing agencies, rescue operations and the identification of stranded people.” He said these authorities can inform NDMA of their specific needs and requisitions which are met by the authority.
Nawaz advised people in risk-prone areas to start vigilance system to warn others regarding the risk of floods. He also recorded a special message for the people of low-lying areas, asking them to keep their essential documents, mobile phone, radio sets, medicines and rations with them in case of any information regarding impending floods.
