President Zardari orders intensified monsoon preparedness throughout the country

President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday directed all federal, provincial and local governments to intensify coordinated preparedness, rescue and relief measures as the country enters a critical phase of the monsoon season amid increased risk of flash floods, cloudbursts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF), landslides and urban flooding.

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

He directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and provincial and local bodies to maintain close coordination and ensure timely dissemination of early warnings.

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

President Zardari directed the authorities to pre-position rescue and relief resources, ensure the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure and take necessary measures to protect tourists and visitors in areas at risk of floods, GLOFs and landslides.

He stressed that all relevant institutions must remain alert and ensure an immediate response wherever life or property is at risk.

Read: Monsoon floods threaten Karachi

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

The President expressed appreciation for the efforts of rescue workers and emergency response personnel involved in relief operations and prayed for the safety of people across the country.