President Zardari orders intensifying monsoon preparedness across the country

President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday ordered all federal, provincial and local authorities to intensify coordinated preparedness, rescue and relief measures as the country enters a critical phase of the monsoon season, amid heightened risks of flash floods, cloud showers, glacial lake-induced floods (GLOF), landslides and urban flooding.

In a statement, the President expressed deep sadness over the loss of precious lives and damage to homes, infrastructure and property caused by the recent rains and related incidents. He offered his sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and expressed solidarity with all those affected.

He asked the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMA) and provincial and local agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure timely issuance of early warnings.

He called for continuous monitoring of rainfall, river flows and water levels in the upper regions of the catchment area, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and directed downstream areas to prepare in advance for possible floods.

President Zardari asked authorities to preposition relief and relief resources, ensure protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure, and take necessary measures to protect tourists and visitors in areas at risk of flash floods, GLOFs and landslides.

He stressed that all relevant institutions must remain vigilant and ensure immediate response wherever lives or property are in danger.

Read: Risk of monsoon flooding threatens Karachi

He urged the public to follow official advice and avoid unnecessary travel to areas subject to warnings of heavy rain, flash floods, landslides or other weather-related hazards.

The President expressed appreciation for the efforts of rescuers and emergency personnel engaged in relief operations and prayed for the safety of people across the country.