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Business Recorder
a day ago
- Climate
- Business Recorder
NDMA warns of floods, landslides in Punjab, KP, GB and AJK amid heavy rains
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Monday issued a weather alert for July 28 to 31, warning of potential floods and landslides in several regions due to expected heavy rainfall. According to the NDMA's National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), torrential rains are likely to affect parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. In Punjab, heavy downpours are forecast in districts including Sargodha, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Lahore, and Narowal. Moderate rainfall is expected in southern districts such as Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, with potential flash floods in hill torrents. The NDMA also warned of increased water flow in streams originating from the Pir Panjal mountain range. In KP, districts including Kohistan, Swat, Malakand, Dir, and Buner could witness flooding in nearby rivers and streams. Rising water levels in the Swat, Panjkora, Bara, and Kalpani rivers may lead to higher discharge in River Kabul near Nowshera. The NDMA has directed all relevant federal and provincial departments to remain alert and take precautionary measures in advance. Rescue teams, machinery, and emergency personnel should remain on standby to deal with any situation. The authority has advised local administrations and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) to ensure preparedness and a timely response. Citizens are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions and follow safety advisories through the 'Pak NDMA Disaster Alert' mobile application. Earlier, the NDMA predicted more monsoon rains and floods in various areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). According to a notification, rain is expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and Shigar areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, as well as in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh in AJK during the forecast period. 'These rains may lead to flooding, while heavy showers in hilly regions may also trigger landslides,' it said, directing all relevant departments and agencies to take proactive measures, ensure the readiness of personnel, machinery, and rescue teams, and remain vigilant to deal with any emergency situation. It said that in Chitral Valley, Buni, and Reshun areas, rainfall combined with melting glaciers may result rise in the water flow of River Chitral. 'Urban flooding is also likely in Muzaffarabad and Bagh due to heavy downpours,' the NEOC said. NDMA has Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and local administrations have been instructed to take timely preventive actions, the notification said. On Sunday, NDMA said that the death toll from weather-related incidents has surged to 272, with the majority of fatalities reported from Punjab The NDMA said 655 individuals have sustained injuries across the country. The death toll includes 93 men, 47 women, and 132 children, while the injured comprise 257 men, 182 women, and 216 children.
Business Recorder
18-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
PM visits NEOC
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday warned that Pakistan is facing extraordinary conditions due to recent cloudbursts and called for urgent preparedness to deal with increasingly extreme weather events. During a visit to the National Emergencies Operations Centre (NEOC), Sharif said forecasts indicated the risk of further cloudbursts and stressed the need for immediate action. 'We must begin preparations now,' the prime minister said, urging authorities to adopt proactive strategies to address the growing risks posed by intensified monsoon activity. Sharif pledged full federal support to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial governments to ensure integrated planning and early response measures. 'This year's experience highlights the importance of a coordinated response. Federal and provincial governments must work together to ensure readiness,' he added. The NDMA officials briefed the prime minister, stating that the 2025 monsoon season has been 60 to 70 percent more severe than the previous year. Three major rain spells have already occurred, they added, resulting in at least 178 fatalities and more than 500 injuries, largely in lower Punjab, Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The NDMA expects four more significant weather events by mid-August, with the next system forecast between 21 and 28 July. Authorities are monitoring flood-prone regions closely, with stagnant water reported in several low-lying areas. Sharif approved the creation of a model disaster response unit in Islamabad and ordered the deployment of a technical team to investigate a recent incident involving tourists in the Swat River. He also endorsed the establishment of a Centre of Excellence within the NEOC and encouraged deeper collaboration with Chinese counterparts under the Belt and Road Initiative. 'This is both a test and an opportunity for Pakistan to build resilience,' the prime minister said, calling for greater investment in disaster-proof infrastructure and enhanced preparedness in sectors such as agriculture. Sharif expressed appreciation for the efforts of provincial governments, particularly Punjab's administration under his niece Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, for what he described as effective disaster management that helped mitigate losses. He extended condolences to the families of those killed and assured continued support for affected communities. The prime minister also directed the Ministry of Information to intensify public awareness campaigns on disaster preparedness through all available media platforms. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
17-07-2025
- Climate
- Express Tribune
PM directs coordinated disaster management plan as monsoon toll hits 178
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is being briefed on measures being with regard to recent Monsson rains and floods at the Natonal Emergencies Operations Centre on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Photo: PID Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), along with the federal ministers for climate change and planning, to closely coordinate with provincial governments in formulating a comprehensive disaster management plan, as the death toll from this year's torrential rains and cloudbursts reached 178 on Thursday. He issued the directive during his visit to the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) at the NDMA headquarters, where he was briefed on the current monsoon situation, ongoing disaster response efforts, and the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Also Read: Punjab declares emergency as torrential rains kill over 60 today During the briefing, NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik reported that so far 178 people have lost their lives and around 500 others have been injured in rain-related incidents across the country. He further informed that this year's monsoon intensity is between 60 to 70 per cent higher than last year, and overall 65 per cent above average across the region. He noted that while the monsoon season typically includes eight to nine weather spells, the current cycle has already experienced two to three additional spells. He added that last year's forecasts had indicated increased impact in northern Punjab, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Islamabad, and upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), whereas this year the brunt has shifted toward lower and upper Punjab, AJK, and Islamabad — a trend expected to continue for another three to four weeks. NDMA chairman also warned that four to five more monsoon spells are expected, with the third spell — which began on June 26 — now nearing its conclusion. Commending the NDMA's efforts, the premier lauded the authority's skilled personnel and modern infrastructure, describing the organisation as providing an "encouraging environment" for disaster management through a highly capable team. Hon'ble Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif visited National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) to review current & evolving monsoon situation. Chairman NDMA, LtG Inam Haider Malik, briefed him on damages incurred,projected seasonal hazards, status of rivers & hydraulic structures. — NDMA PAKISTAN (@ndmapk) July 17, 2025 He acknowledged the recent incidents of cloudbursts and heavy downpours in Chakwal, Lahore, Islamabad, and other hilly regions, noting the severity of the weather conditions. While southern parts of the country have been less affected, he observed that the central and northern regions remain significantly at risk. He also praised the response of provincial governments. He said coordination between NDMA and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) had helped minimise losses. Emphasising the importance of preparedness, PM Shehbaz said, 'As projections show increased cloudburst activity, we must prepare accordingly. The federal government and NDMA must maintain close coordination with provinces.' Highlighting Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change, he reiterated that although the country contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it ranks among the top ten most climate-vulnerable nations. 'This is both a challenge and an opportunity to build a climate-resilient Pakistan, particularly in the fields of agriculture and infrastructure,' the PM added.
Business Recorder
11-07-2025
- Climate
- Business Recorder
NEOC warns of landslides in northern regions particularly Gilgit-Baltistan, AJ&K
The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), on Friday released a warning for potential landslides in northern areas, notably Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJ&K). According to the alert, isolated heavy rainfall is expected in the valleys of Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamir, Ghanche, and Shigar. Widespread heavy rain is also likely in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Haveli, Bagh, and adjoining areas of AJ&K. Potentially affected areas include Upper Kohistan (RD 200–240), Diamir and Astore (RD 340–380), Gilgit (RD 400), and Nagar (RD 460) along the Karakoram Highway (KKH). Multiple locations along the Jaglot–Skardu Road (JSR), particularly in the Rondu region, are also at risk of landslides, mudslides, and rockfalls. Authorities and residents in high-risk zones are advised to remain vigilant for potential slope failures, landslides, and ground subsidence. Travel to vulnerable areas should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Relevant departments have been instructed to ensure the availability of emergency personnel and machinery in the identified areas and remain on standby for a rapid response. The NDMA said it is actively coordinating with the GBDMA and SDMA to implement proactive response measures and safeguard affected communities. The public is strongly urged to stay informed through official alerts disseminated via television, radio, SMS, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application. NDMA remains in close coordination with relevant authorities to monitor the evolving situation and ensure the timely dissemination of warnings. Meanwhile, the NEOC has also issued a hydrological outlook along with an impact-based weather alert for the period from July 13 to 17. In its advisory, the NEOC has urged the public to take precautionary measures in anticipation of moderate to heavy monsoon rains expected to affect multiple regions of the country during this period. The forecast indicates moderate to heavy monsoon rainfall across various parts of Pakistan, driven by increased moisture from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea in conjunction with an active westerly wave system. As a result, increased flows are expected in all major rivers, particularly the Indus, Kabul, Jhelum (upstream Mangla), and Chenab. Currently, Tarbela, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages are at low flood levels, while Kalabagh and Chashma are at medium flood levels. 'Taunsa is also expected to rise to medium flood level, with low to medium flows likely to persist in Indus river stations throughout the coming week. River Chenab at Marala and Khanki is expected to reach low flood levels, while River Kabul at Nowshera is also forecasted to attain low flood level. Rain-induced swelling is anticipated in River Swat and River Panjkora along with their associated streams and nullahs,' the NEOC said.
Arab News
09-07-2025
- Health
- Arab News
Pakistan to launch targeted polio vaccination drive in northern districts next week
KARACHI: Pakistan will launch a targeted five-day polio vaccination campaign next week, aiming to immunize more than 158,000 children in high-risk districts of the northern Gilgit-Baltistan region and northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, health authorities said on Wednesday. The campaign will be conducted exclusively in the Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan and the Upper Kohistan, Lower Kohistan, and Kolai-Palas districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC), which oversees Pakistan's polio eradication efforts. 'Special focus and effective strategies are being applied in high-risk union councils,' the NEOC said in a statement, referring to administrative units where access and vaccine acceptance remain challenging. The drive will take place from July 14 to 18. Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children and can cause permanent paralysis. There is no cure, but it can be prevented through multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and a complete routine immunization schedule, experts say. Pakistan, one of only two countries in the world where polio remains endemic, the other being neighboring Afghanistan, has made significant gains in recent decades. Annual cases have fallen dramatically from an estimated 20,000 in the early 1990s to single digits by 2018. However, the country has witnessed a worrying resurgence recently. As of July 2025, Pakistan has reported 14 polio cases, including eight in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, four in Sindh, and one each in Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan, according to official data. The country reported 74 cases in 2024, raising alarms among health officials and global partners supporting the eradication campaign. In contrast, only six cases were recorded in 2023 and just one in 2021. The latest targeted drive follows smaller vaccination efforts in high-risk areas. A special campaign was conducted last month in six union councils of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bannu district, where approximately 17,500 children were vaccinated. A similar operation is planned for 11 union councils in North Waziristan, another district with a history of polio transmission. The government conducted three nationwide polio campaigns earlier this year, in February, April, and May, aiming to reach around 45 million children with the help of over 400,000 frontline workers, including 225,000 women vaccinators. Despite decades of effort, Pakistan's eradication drive has faced persistent challenges, including misinformation about vaccines and resistance from conservative religious and militant groups who view immunization campaigns with suspicion. Some clerics have claimed the vaccines are a Western conspiracy to sterilize Muslim children or part of intelligence operations. Vaccination teams and police providing security have also been targeted in militant attacks, particularly in remote and conflict-affected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. These threats have at times forced the suspension of campaigns and restricted access to vulnerable populations. Pakistan launched its national polio eradication program in 1994.
