Karachi, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad and Lahore need precautionary measures to prevent possible emergencies during urban flooding: Chairman NDMA
Lt. Gen. Mohammad Afzal, Chairman, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), said that the corona virus epidemic and locust heart monsoon season is demanding an integrated strategy. Along with the preparations, the effects of climate change must also be considered, ensuring preparedness at the local level in the view of the risk of floods in major cities.
He expressed these views while addressing a conference on pre-monsoon preparations. He said that every year monsoon rains carry the risk of floods while landslides and glaciers also cause damage.
The Chairman NDMA said that the coming monsoon season with corona virus epidemic and locust heart condition requires an integrated strategy, in this regard, we have to consider the effects of climate change along with traditional preparations.
He said the chances of urban flooding are also high this season with major cities at the risk of flooding. Ensure preparedness at the local level, including early warning arrangements for advance notice. “The NDMA has drawn up a national contingency plan. All partners have been consulted in this regard. I am confident that the provincial disaster management authorities will be fully prepared,” he said.
General Mohammad Afzal said that all major cities are at the risk of urban flooding. In this regard, Karachi authorities are requested to ensure cleanliness of rainwater and other drains, as well as in cities like Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad and Lahore. Precautionary measures need to be taken to prevent a possible emergency.