News 2018
Third Session of the Governing Council of APDIM and High Level Expert Consultation on Disaster Information Management.
Tehran, Iran, 21st Dec 2018:
During the third session of Governing Council of Asia and Pacific Centre for Development of Disaster Information Management (APDIM), Lt Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat, HI(M), the Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) was elected as Vice Chair of the Councils in recognition of Pakistan’s distinct contributions and active role in the field of disaster management in the region. Dr. Seyed Hamid Pourmohammadi, Deputy Vice President, Plan and Budget Organization of Iran was awarded the Chair, as traditionally the position goes to the host country as per the diplomatic norms.
During this event Chairman, NDMA lead Pakistan’s delegation to attend the third session of the Governing Council of APDIM and the High Level Expert Consultation on Disaster Information Management in Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran from 18-19 Dec 2018. The Governing Council comprises of Bangladesh, Cambodia, Iran, Macao, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Turkey.
The High Level Expert Consultation meeting was attended by senior officials and experts from ESCAP member countries from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Fiji, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Pakistan, Russian, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste and Turkey. The meeting was also attended by senior officials of UNISDR, UNDP/GCDS and JICA.
The consultative meeting was held to discuss strategies, approaches and mechanisms in developing information management for disaster risk reduction and for monitoring the progress in achieving the targets of the Sendai Framework and disaster related targets of the Sustainable Development Goals.
In a broader perspective, the event turned out to be very rewarding for the country as Pakistan was selected as the next destination to host the forth session of as Governing Council in 2019 and also managed to secure the cooperation for Tsunami Risk Assessment of Makran region in partnership with UNESCO/IOC. Further, Pakistan beside Iran was recommended for APDIM’s capacity development programme on Sendai Framework Monitoring as the initial pilot countries, in partnership with UNISDR and in coordination with UNCTs.
During the course of this visit, the Chairman NDMA also took part in the inauguration ceremony of the APDIM building along with high level officials from the Government of Iran, including Dr. Gholam-Hossein Dehghani, Deputy Foreign Minister of Iran. Other participants included senior representatives from UNISDR, UNDP/GCDS, JICA and ESCAP as well as members of APDIM Governing Council and a number of delegates from Asian and Pacific countries.
It is important to mention that APDIM is established as a regional institution of the Commission with the following agenda; Firstly, it will serve as a knowledge and information repository for all disaster-related data in the region. Secondly, it will lead on capacity development by developing knowledge management tools and facilities such as e-learning platforms for disaster risk resilience with specific training modules. Thirdly, it will deliver information services on cross-border disasters to the countries and organizations of the region.
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MITIGATING INDUSTRIAL DISASTERS RISK CRUCIAL FOR GROWTH CHAIRMAN NDMA.
Islamabad 26th November, 2018:
Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat has said that mitigating industrial disaster is crucial for industrial growth and progress of the country and therefore among the top priorities of NDMA. He stated this during his remarks in a meeting held that Pakistan Federation for Chamber of Commerce & Industries (FPCCI) here in Islamabad on Monday.
As a member of Pakistan Resilience Partnership (PRP) from private sector, FPCCI had arranged a meeting at its headquarters in Islamabad to discuss the grave challenges of mitigating industrial disasters. Representative from all provincial and district Chamber of Commerce and Industries participated in the meeting.
Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat while referring to the oil spill and tanker explosion near Bahawalpur in 2017, where over 200 people were killed said that natural catastrophes aside, Pakistan also faces a growing danger of industrial disaster. He alerted the audience that Industrial Hazards could lead to graver incident in future, if safety measures and precautions were not enforced in time. He hoped that being a member of Pakistan Resilience Partnership (PRP) and a stakeholder FPCCI will lead to greater disaster risk awareness among the business community at national level.
Earlier Member Operations, NDMA gave a brief to the participant on the disaster management mechanism of Pakistan as well as highlighted the objectives for establishment of Pakistan Resilience Partnership (PRP). He said that NDMA has carried out Macro Level Industrial Hazards Assessment and hoped that FPCCI would support to conduct a Micro level Industrial Hazard Assessment and will help in Resilience Planning and Implantation. He also informed the participants that NDMA was planning to develop and implement a dedicated coordination mechanism for industrial disaster management. This will help to ensure efficient and timely coordination in case of any eventuality.
Chairman FPCCI, Mr. Ghazanfar Bilour, agreed to the NDMA’s proposal of raising an Endearment Fund for Disaster Management in the Country.
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DISASTER RESILIENT DEVELOPMENT GOVERNMENT’S TOP AGENDA
NAEEM UL HAQ .
Islamabad 13th October, 2018 :
Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on Political Affairs, Naeem Ul Haq has said that present government under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan has a strong commitment for developing disaster resilient cities and infrastructure. He made this statement in his address as a Chief Guest in a public ceremony held at F-9 Park. The event was organized by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to observe ‘International Day for Disaster Reduction’.
The SAPM stressed that as part of its long term planning, present government of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf was working on creating resilient infrastructures and mechanisms to cope up with entire spectrum of disasters. He highlighted the importance of community awareness and involvement as an essential component of Disaster Risk Mitigation, and applauded the efforts of NDMA for engaging communities by observing ‘International Day for Disaster Reduction’ as an open event to general public.
Chairman NDMA, Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat in his welcome address said that Pakistan, being a most disaster prone country, has endured more than its fair share of disasters from floods, earthquakes, droughts and landslides during the last two decades. He acknowledged and appreciated the help and assistance rendered by international community to Pakistan during past disasters and said that to align itself with the aspirations of international community, from this year onwards NDMA has decided to observe 13th October as ‘International Day for Disaster Reduction’. While emphasizing the importance of proactive disaster management he said, “Old reactionary and response oriented disaster management is being replaced with more engaging approach of disaster risk reduction and pre-emptive mitigation”. Chairman NDMA also thanked UN Agencies and other development partners, for their active support in NDMA’s endeavors to build a ‘Resilient Pakistan’.
Earlier Member Operations, NDMA dilated upon the aim and objective of the celebrating 13th October as ‘International Day for Disaster Reduction’. He also briefed the participant on various activities that were designed for the Day. He appreciated that general public participated in the event in great number and said that it was a reflection and a hope for prosperous future and disaster resilient Pakistan.
There was a variety of activities to engage children, youth, civil society and people from all walks of life to educate them about potential hazards and challenges and measures to mitigate the disaster risks. The activities included, plantation of saplings, signing the pledge wall with the theme ‘we pledge for a disaster resilient Pakistan, and short walk in F-9 Park. A flag march of USAR teams and Fire Fighting Vehicles was arranged by NDMA, starting from Jinnah Convention Center, Islamabad and culminating at Fatima Jinnah Park. People from different walks of life also participated in Flag March. A cyclothon comprising of over 50 cyclists also marched through the major roads of the city, to mark the day, highlighting the importance preparedness for disasters. Gender & Child Cell (GCC) of NDMA under Pakistan School Safety Programm (PSSF) arrange a drawing festival, in which various government and private schools from Rawalpindi and Islamabad participated.
This year NDMA joined hands with International Community to observe October 13 as ‘International Day for Disaster Reduction. Earlier, 8th October was commemorated as ‘National Resilience Day’ to pay homage to martyrs and to express solidarity with the survivors past disasters. Apart from senior government officials, diplomatic community, representative of UN, INGOs and NGOs, citizen of twin city of Rawalpindi and Islamabad participated in the event in a large number.
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8TH OCTOBER REMINDS US NEED TO CEASELESSLY WORK FOR BETTER PREPAREDNESS AGAINST DISASTERS.
Islamabad 8th October, 2018
Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Shafqat Mahmood has said that 8th October reminds us of the need to ceaselessly work for better preparedness against Disasters. He stated this while addressing the audience as Chief Guest at an event held to commemorate the victims of the past disasters on occasion of National Resilience Day here in Islamabad.
The Education Minister said. “We observe this day not only to pay homage to our people who unfortunately lost their lives in disasters, but also to those who relentlessly extended helping hand to the affectees. While appreciating NDMA for renaming this day as National Resilience Day, he said that people of Pakistan have braved recurring disasters over the past two decades with courage and fortitude. “In this context 8th October is rightly renamed as National Resilience Day”, the minister continued.
Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat in his welcome address has highlighted that according to fiscal risk assessment study by the World Bank, Pakistan was losing 1.2 to 2 billion US dollars on the average to disasters, annually and any disaster of mega magnitude in the future is likely to cost us around US dollars 15 billion. He said that NDMA Pakistan since its inception has not only proved its worth by managing mega disasters but has also set direction right and has moved at an encouraging pace towards ensuring resilience of Pakistan. Chairman NDMA emphasized that consolidation of legal and institutional structures within the system as already approved by the NDMC was essential for effective coordination in the time of emergency.
Later Mr. Idrees Mehsood, Member DRR underscored main points of the project of micro level Multi – Hazard Vulnerability and Risk Assessments (MHVRA) undertaken by NDMA. MHVRA is a risk assessment of all districts to form part of Disaster Management Information System that will provide a common operating picture to all stakeholders. Ms Raheela Saad, Member (Admin & Finance) presented Pakistan School Safety Framework (PSSF), a unique initiative of NDMA to ensure school safe. Minister Education not only appreciated this effort of NDMA but assured all possible help and cooperation for of his Ministry in the implementation of PSSF. Brigadier Mukhtar Ahmed, Member (Operations) gave a presentation on coffee-table-book, the Story- a Journey through Resilient Pakistan” that was also launched on this occasion. It was envisioned and developed to pay tribute to the resilient people of this nation, in the wake of natural and human-induced catastrophes. It is an exhaustive compilation of NDMA’s notable efforts & immense contribution in disaster preparedness and response. Chief Guest distributed award among the representative of those partner organizations that helped Pakistan in hour of need. The Chief Guest also took a round of the photo gallery and visited live demo of MHVRA and DSS.
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NATO’s DISASTER / CONSEQUENCE MANAGEMENT EXERCISE – SRBIJA 2018
Serbia 8-11 October 2018 in Mladenovac and Arandjelova:
Pakistani Team of 17 x Rescuers (organised under National Disaster Management Authority) participated in a Disaster / Consequence Management Field Exercise “SRBIJA 2018” which took place from 8-11 October 2018 in Mladenovac and Arandjelovac, Municipalities of
Belgrade, Serbia. The exercise was jointly conducted by North Atlantic Treaty Organisation’s (NATO) Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) and the Sector for Emergency Management of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia.
This was the 18th EADRCC exercise and the first to be hosted by Republic of Serbia.
The scenario for the field exercise was based on an earthquake and cascading emergencies which affected the civil population and critical infrastructure in the area around Mladenovac and Arandjelovac. This exercise was the largest field exercise for disaster management organised
by NATO to date, with participation of 39 x countries (including the Host Nation),
14 x Organisations / Military Teams with total participation of approximately 3,000 persons.
The exercise not only helped improve the understanding & capacity of Pakistani Team Members to handle similar situations in Pakistan rather it also enhanced ties with NATO Country Members and the Republic of Serbia too. Furthermore, the Pakistani Team also witnessed and learnt the use of new techniques and technologies being used by various participating countries.
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Media’s role pivotal in building a resilient Pakistan;Chairman NDMA
Islamabad 5th October, 2018:
Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat has said that role of media was pivotal in building a resilient Pakistan. He stated this while speaking to the journalistic community at “Consultative Dialogue: Role of Media in Preparing a Resilient Nation” here in Islamabad on Friday.
Lt. Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat has said that role of media cannot over emphasized in building resilience among the masses against the disasters and natural calamities and therefore, media is an important stakeholder towards ensuring safety of human lives and properties. He observed that over the years mass media, by highlighting important subjects of public concern, has established itself as a bridge between government and the people. Chairman NDMA appreciated this new role adopted by mass media in Pakistan and urged the media person present at the dialogue to come up with their inputs to strengthen this bound to build a disaster resilient nation.
Chairman NDMA hoped that media will not only appreciate the positive work of the government departments but also thoroughly understands the scope of different operators of Disaster Management System of Pakistan and point out the weakness wherever found.
He highlighted that NDMA was a lead federal agency primarily responsible for planning and policy formulation for the whole country, while execution lies with the provincial governments. He said that NDMA has introduced policies such as, Pakistan School Safety Framework for the safety of children at school, amended Building Codes and developed Guidelines for Uniform Compensations for Disaster victims. Now it’s the responsibility of the provincial authorities to implement these policies in letter and spirit, he added. Chairman informed that participant that NDMA is working towards establishing an exclusive National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to boost the response capacity in the event of a disaster.
A Media Toolkit on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) was also introduced at the occasion. This Media Toolkit is aimed at providing basic information to journalists, reporting natural and human-induced disasters. It also covers key DRR principles to strengthen their role and contribution in building resilient communities through media.
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Visit of Turkish Parliamentary Delegation
Islamabad, the September 19, 2018:
A five members Turkish Parliamentary Delegation led by Senator Muhammad Talha Mehmood (Pakistan) and Hassan Akra, Mayyor of Killis (Turkey), called on Chairman NDMA Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat here on Wednesday in Prime Minister’s Office, Islamabad.
The core purpose of the meeting was to enhance understanding of the disaster management mechanism and priorities of both the countries for the purpose of finding ways to further enhance cooperation between two brotherly countries, especially in the realm of disaster management. A detailed discussion on the existing Disaster Management System in Pakistan along with interventions, challenges, and future priorities were amply highlighted by the Chairman NDMA. Fruitful discussion and exchange of views, including on Field Cooperation between both the countries took place during the meeting.
Chairman NDMA highlighted different initiatives undertaken by NDMA at various levels and their positive contribution in Disaster Management in Pakistan. The Turkish delegation appreciated the efforts of NDMA and acknowledged the tremendous work done by the Government and Senator Talha Mahmood in Pakistan and abroad. The delegation also apprised Chairman about various initiatives being undertaken by the Turkish Government for managing refugees’ situation along the Turkish border. Both sides agreed to further enhance the level of cooperation between both the countries. The delegation thanked Chairman NDMA for giving insight to the members of Parliamentary delegation about NDMA and its functioning.
PAKISTAN-KAZAKISTAN SIGN MOU ON DISASTER MANAGEMENT.
Islamabad, June 23, 2018:
Pakistan and Kazakhstan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-operate in the field of Disaster Management. On the sidelines of 6th RTG Meeting here on Friday, Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat and Deputy Chairman, Ministry of Emergency Situations, Kazakistan, H. E. Nurmagambetov Talgat signed the MOU.
The executing agency for implementation of MOU from Pakistan is National Disaster Management Authority, (NDMA) while Ministry of Emergency Situation, Republic of Kazakhstan is the focal agency of the Kazakhstan. Under the MoU, both countries can benefit by strengthening bilateral co-operation, sharing expertise in emergency monitoring information, scientific research, joint exercises, seminars, exchange of scientists, and professional trainings in the field of disaster management.
While speaking on the occasion Chairman NDMA Lt. Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat termed the signing of MoU as a significant development toward building resilience against disasters and said that this MOU will provide a legal framework for enhancing mutual cooperation between the two countries in the areas of Disaster Management and Risk Mitigation
Both sides expressed strong resolve for continued support and co-operation and to share mutually beneficial experience.
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Pakistan greatly appreciates friendly, neighbouring countries’ goodwill gesture, assistance during past disasters. Chairman NDMA.
Islamabad; June 21, 2018:
Chairman National disaster management authority (NDMA), Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat stated that Pakistan greatly appreciates the goodwill gestures of assistance extended from our friendly neighbours and foreign countries during past disasters. He expressed these view during the launching ceremony of “Host Nation Support Guideline for Foreign Assistance to Pakistan during Disasters” here on Thursday morning.
He further said that foreign assistance was of great value, but it also increases the level of coordination for the host country. While emphasising the importance for contextual understanding of local needs by foreign responders, he observed that the “Host Nation Support Guidelines for Foreign Assistance to Pakistan during
Disasters” will ensure a clear understanding of the rules, responsibilities and processes for all stakeholders, both national and international. “Ensuring a common operating picture was vital to avoid delays and wasteful duplication of effort”, he added. Lt. Gen Omar reiterated that NDMA will continue to work with all stakeholders to build the capacities necessary for best utilisation of relief assistance provided by foreign countries.
Experiences of two of the largest disasters to affect Pakistan in recent past – the 2005 Kashmir Earthquake and the 2010 Super Floods in addition to multitude of smaller scale disasters – have highlighted the need for understanding the complexities of large scale logistics, planning and coordination efforts required for managing foreign assistance in disaster situations. To bridge this gap, NDMA with the support of the Australian High Commission in Islamabad, the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre, and a team of locally-based consultants, developed the Host Nation Support Guidelines for Pakistan.
Member (Operation), NDMA, Brigadier Mukhtar Ahmed, highlighted the need of such national level guidelines for effective coordination and efficient distribution of resources among the disaster victims. He also dilated upon the complex and complicated process involved in the development of this document. He informed that input from all relevant stakeholders, government departments and development partners were duly sought and incorporated into this document.
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PRE-EMPTIVE STRATEGY VITAL FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION; AZAM KHAN
PAKISTAN AMONGST THOSE FEW COUNTRIES THAT HAVE DEVELOPED THEIR OWN LONG TERM DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN: CHAIRMAN NDMA
Islamabad, June 20, 2018:
Caretaker Interior Minister Azam Khan has said that pre-emptive strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction was vital for ensuring safety to human lives and properties in face of natural calamities and climatic catastrophes. He expressed these views during his speech as Chief Guest at the inaugural session of two-day International Conference on Disaster Management here on Wednesday morning. The conference will be followed by 6th meeting of regional technical group of Disaster Management Confidence Building Measures (DM-CBM) of Heart of Asia, Istanbul Process. NDMA Pakistan is co hosting DM-CBM along with Kyrgyzstan.
Azam Khan observed that Asia-Pacific region in general and Pakistan in particular was prone to a multitude of disasters and therefore special measure were needed to handle these recurring disasters from changed weather pattern. He said that Pakistan had a vast and diverse experience of coping up with disasters and stated that other countries of the region can learn from Pakistan’s expertise in this field.
Lieutenant General Omer Mahmood Hayat, Chairman NDMA, during his welcome address has said that Pakistan was amongst those few countries that have developed their own long term Disaster Management Plan in 2013. He further stated that we strongly believe that Disaster Risk Reduction Approach is imperative for building resilience and sustainable development, especially for developing countries like Pakistan. He underlined that Sendai Framework for DRR and Paris Climate Change Agreement provide unique opportunity to move towards the vision for “risk sensitive development as cornerstone for sustainability”. Earlier, Member (DRR Wing), NDMA, Idrees Mahsud gave an over view of the conference.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Pakistan is hosting an International Conference with expert group discussions addressing Disaster Risks Specific to Pakistan from 20th June to 22nd June in Islamabad. The central theme for the conference is “Capitalizing on Pakistan’s Vast Experience in Handling Disasters, Creating Synergies among Global Frameworks for Resilience-Lessons Learnt and the Way Forward for the Region” The meetings will be split into following three sub themes, “Pakistan’s Experience in Managing Mega Disaster’, ‘Lessons to be learnt’ and “Analyzing related Global Frameworks for resilience with the aim to create synergies and strengthen risk governance”
Three days exhaustive discussions at this forum will provide a great opportunity for NDMA to understand the challenges and emerging requirements for effective implementation of risk-sensitive sustainable development strategies that are needed to be contextualized to the specific disaster risks facing Pakistan. Main focus will thus be on the progress achieved so far under Disaster Management – CBMs, and future course for implementation of the approved activities, deliberations on the future road map of DM-CBM.
NDMA Pakistan, as a lead Organization from Pakistan is also hosting the 6th Regional Technical Group Meeting in Islamabad on last day of conference on 22nd June, 2018. It is expected that a technical focal persons each from the “Heart of Asia” participating states (Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan and Turkey) and from supporting countries (the Kingdom of Sweden, Denmark, France, Japan, Norway, United Kingdom and the United States) and delegates from International and Regional organizations including United Nation, The World Bank and European Union etc. shall participate in the Meeting.
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Effective Disaster Management is touchstone of good governance; Chairman NDMA.
Islamabad; 7 June 2018:
Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat, Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has said that an effective Disaster Management Mechanism is a touchstone of good governance of a country. He stated this in his closing remarks of National Monsoon Preparedness Conferences-2018 in Islamabad on Thursday.
Chairman NDMA has said that that core purpose of all state institutions was serving its citizen and disaster management is aimed at ensuring the protection of life and properties during the times of stress and disaster. “This is how we can serve the humanity and establish our credibility as a state institution”, he emphasized.
While underlining the importance of understanding Disaster Management in global climate change perspective he said that conventional Disaster Management practices were necessary but real challenge lied in social adaptation according to shifting weather patterns and coping with its impacts.
National Monsoon Preparedness Conferences-2018 was aimed at reviewing the state of preparedness at Federal, Provincial/Regional and up to district levels to cope up with the forthcoming Monsoon rains and to harmonize all related provincial and departmental plans with respect to flood prevention, rescue, relief and post flood rehabilitation measure if necessary. Conference was chaired by Chairman NDMA Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat.
Senior representatives of various federal ministries and departments like, Communication, Water Resources, Railways, Armed Forces, CDA, SUPARCO, NESPAK, Provincial Irrigation Departments, Provincial/Regional Disaster Management Authorities, Pakistan Red Crescent (PRC), UN agencies, Pakistan Boys Scouts Association, Pakistan Girls Guide Association participated in the conference.
While presenting Monsoon Outlook-2018, PMD forecasted likelihood of normal to above normal rainfall during first half of the Monsoon- 2018 while normal to less than normal rainfall during second half of August to September. However, report stated that some extreme localized rainfall events are likely to occur in some parts of northern Punjab and KPK which may cause localized flash flooding in mountainous regions.
Representative of all provincial/regional Disaster Management Authorities shared the nature of hazard and vulnerabilities faced in their respective provinces/regions and state of their preparedness and prevention measures put in place to cope up with these vulnerabilities. They also share the details of available rescue equipment as well as rehabilitations and relief stocks in their warehouses for the emergencies.
FFC presented policy for dams’ management and province wise vulnerable points that needed special attention, NHA shared progress on preparatory efforts undertaken for various National Highways with focus on KKH, Gilgit-Skardu Road, Dir-Chitral Road, Rawalpindi-Murree-Muzaffarabad Road, Manshera-Naran Road. UNOCHA shared resource capacities of UN agencies across Pakistan coordination mechanism.
Member Operations NDMA Brigadier Mukhtar Ahmed presented salient of Floods Preparedness Plan-2018. Based on PMD’s weather forecast for Monsoon Season-2018 he shared detailed Contingency Plan with the participant and reviewed the state of preparedness. From past experiences, he critically evaluated and identified the limitations and inadequacies and emphasized for a better response during upcoming Monsoon by all stakeholders.
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Shimshal Valley, Khurdpin Glacier to be monitored to mitigate flooding risk Chairman NDMA.
Islamabad, May 14, 2018:
Lt. General Omar Mahmood Hayat, Chairman NDMA has directed Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GB-DMA) to constantly monitor the situation developing at Shimshal Valley, due to Khurdpind Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Risks. He said this while chairing a meeting here on Monday, to discuss the recommendations of the team of experts that visited the site of the Shimshal Valley to observe the situation in March this year. Chairman NDMA reiterated NDMA’s all possible support for GB-DMA in mitigating disasters and ensuring safety.
Director General GB-DMA, Farid Ahmed in a detailed briefing to the participant of the meeting presented the recommendations of Team of Experts and update on the latest situation. He informed the participants that there was no immediate threat of flooding due to Khurdpin Glacial Lake. He, however expressed his apprehensions that in future lake can develop into risk to inhabitant of Shimshal Valley and particularly the main road leading to the valley. He urged the need for constant monitoring and appropriate actions to thwart off the threat.
Lt. Gen Omar has also advised Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority to establish a round the clock monitoring unit to observe the situation of the Khurdopin Glacier in Shimshal Valley and initiate immediate preventive measures. He also advised GB-DMA to keep NDMA updated on lasted situation and ensured all possible support.
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NDMA and IUCN Sign MoU for Collaboration in Implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction Priorities in the Country
Islamabad,April 04th, 2018:
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 04th, 2018, in line with its agenda to implement a Child-Centered Disaster Risk Reduction approach in preparing and responding to disasters, as well as early recovery.
Chairman NDMA, Lt. Gen. Omar Mahmood Hayat and Country Representative of IUCN, Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema signed the agreement.
The MoU will facilitate collaborative initiatives between the two organizations in the following potential areas: Climate Change Adaptation, implementation of gender action plans (GAP) on climate change, knowledge management and research on studies in urban resilience and interventions for environmental education in schools. Moreover, IUCN will work on awareness raising and capacity building initiatives with NDMA.
Chairman NDMA, while speaking on the occasion, said that the MoU will serve as another milestone in NDMA’s efforts to ensure that we as a nation are protected and prepared for climate related challenges.
Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema said that he welcomes this collaborative initiative and looks forward to strengthen the relationship between NDMA and IUCN for climate related disaster risk reduction initiatives.
Team of Experts visits Khurdopin Glacier, Shimshal Valley
Islamabad, March 29:
A Team of Experts constituted by the Prime Minister of Pakistan, has visited the Khurdopin Glacier, Shimshal Valley today to observe the situation on the site. In a meeting last week chaired by Lt. General Omar Mahmood Hayat, Chairman NDMA, it was decided that Team of Experts would visit Shimshal Valley and submit the report to the Chairman NDMA by early next month. Member Operations NDMA, Brigadier Mukhtar Ahmed is leading the team.
The Khurdopin Glacier situated in Shimshal Valley of district Hunza has a history of surging, retreating and bursting with a cycle of 20 years. The bursting of the Glacier Lake in 1905 and 1964 had caused considerable damage to both public and private infrastructure downstream beyond Gilgit city. The most recent surge was observed around 1998–99. After years of little movement, the glacier began a rapid advance in October 2016. As ice and sediment pushed into the river, a sizable lake pooled up in December 2017. As per experts report, the glacier has progressed quite abnormally and has completely blocked the Shimshal River resulting in creation of a Glacial Lake.
To deal with the developing catastrophe Chairman NDMA had directed the Team of Experts to visit the site and after observing the situation on ground submit a comprehensive report on Shimshal Valley Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Risks, covering all aspects including technical and financial details and recommendation for implementation. On the basis of observation taken, the Team of Experts would submit its recommendation and necessary remedial measures to cope up with the brewing calamity. All the logistic arrangement to visit were managed by the NDMA.
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Fire Incident at Margalla Hills.
On 29 March 2018:
Wild Fire erupted on Margalla Hills, Islamabad. Emergency Services of CDA have been attempting to extinguish ; however due to limited resources, steep incline, remotness of area and high spred wind , fire could not be extinguished. The increasing intensity/spread of Fire started endangering residential/populated areas around Faisal Mosques and Village Kalinjar .
today (30 March 18), NDMA through Joint Services Headquarters (JS HQ) mobilized ground and Aerial Fire Fighting resources of Pakistan Armed Forces (Army, Navy & Air Force).
Helicopters of Army, PAF and Cabinet Division were extensively employed through out the day to control the wild Fire.
Present Status. As per on site representatives of CDA fire has been almost controlled/ extinguished and populated areas are Safe. However, still 3-4 dispersed places are under mild Fire and dismounted Troops ex Army and Navy are still assisting CDA fire fighting staff. Wind Velocity/ speed is hampering the Fire Fighting. It is assessed that helicopter effort will be required tomorrow as well to completely extinguish the Fire.
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Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi chaired 5th meeting of National Disaster Management Commission at Prime Minister’s Office today.
Islamabad, 28 March 2018:
The meeting was attended by the Leader of Opposition in National Assembly, Leader of Opposition in Senate, Minister for Climate Change, Minister for Defence, Foreign Minister, Minister for National Food Security and Research, Minister for Water Resources, Advisor to PM for Finance, MoS for Information, Broadcasting, NH&LH, Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan, Prime Minister AJK, Minister for Disaster Management Punjab, Minister for Rehabilitation Sindh, Chairman NDMA and senior officials.
Lt. Gen. Omar Mahmood Hayat, Chairman NDMA, presented an overview of disaster management context of the country, evolution of disaster management authority, achievements made so far and the challenges faced by the NDMA in responding to emergency situations and taking measures for disaster risk reduction and effective response mechanism. He also apprised the meeting about the contributions of the NDMA towards providing relief and rescue efforts during emergencies in various foreign countries.
The Prime Minister in his remarks said that climate change coupled with various other factors has increased the frequency of disasters and therefore calls for higher level of preparedness and institutional response to meet these challenges. He said that past experience should be utilized to fine tune disaster management strategies and put in place an efficient and effective mechanism in line with best international practices.
The meeting reviewed the progress on decisions of the previous NDMC meetings.
The meeting granted ex-post facto approval to NDMC for compensation of Rs. 104.20 million to the affectees of LOC firing. Relief/Aid provided to the friendly countries during various disasters was also ratified during the meeting.
The meeting approved the Pakistan School Safety Framework (PSSF). The framework would serve as a model for the provinces to ensure safety and disaster risk reduction.
The meeting also approved a proposal for putting in place a cohesive disaster management legislation and institutional framework through merger, repealing or reconfiguring the existing laws and organizations related to the disaster management.
In order to overcome bureaucratic delays and improve efficiency and effectiveness of the NDMA, it was also decided, in principle, to place NDMA under the Prime Minister’s Office.
The meeting also discussed various proposals for capacity enhancement of the NDMA.
It was decided to create a model National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), as a pilot project, at the Federal Capital level by utilizing the human resource available with other organizations associated with disaster and relief management.
It was also decided to strengthen aviation wing of Ministry of Interior for providing aviation support to NDMA during its rescue and relief efforts.
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Chairman NDMA sought comprehensive report on Shimshal Valley GLOF Risk by early next month.
Islamabad, March 20:
Lt. General Omar Mahmood Hayat, Chairman NDMA has directed the team of experts to submit a comprehensive report on Shimshal Valley Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Risks covering all aspects including technical and financial details and recommendation for implementation be sent to NDMA at the earliest. He sought this report while chairing the first meeting of the Team of Experts constitution by the Prime Minister of Pakistan to evaluate the situation at site.
The Khurdopin Glacier situated in Shimshal Valley of district Hunza has a history of surging, retreating and bursting with a cycle of 20 years. The bursting of the Glacier Lake in 1905 and 1964 had caused considerable damage to both public and private infrastructure downstream beyond Gilgit city. The most recent surge was observed around 1998–99. After years of little movement, the glacier began a rapid advance in October 2016. As ice and sediment pushed into the river, a sizable lake pooled up in December 2017. As per experts report, the glacier has progressed quite abnormally and has completely blocked the Shimshal River resulting in creation of a Glacial Lake.
To deal with the emerging situation a meeting was held at NDMA on last month to discuss course of actions and subsequently recommended the formulation of Team of Experts (ToE) to evaluate the situation at site. Prime Minister has approved the NDMA’s recommendation for the formulation of the team of experts and allocation of fund to cope up with the situation. Chairing the meeting of the Team of Experts, Lt. Gen Omar has also advised Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority to establish a round the clock monitoring unit to observe the situation of the Khurdopin Glacier in Shimshal Valley and initiate immediate preventive measures.
He also directed to devise early warning system and mechanism for timely dissemination of information to the threatened population and preparation for precautionary Evacuation Plan for threatened population and conduct of mock drills for evacuation. He also emphasised the stockpiling of requisite rescue / relief stores including food & medicine, forward displacing of earth moving machinery and keeping emergency services on alert.
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South African Army Chief Visits NDMA
Islamabad; March 14, 2018:
Chief of South African Army, Lieutenant General Lindile Yam called on Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat here on Wednesday.
The visiting dignitary was briefed on the Disaster Management System of Pakistan and role and responsibilities of NDMA. While talking to South African Army Chief, Chairman NDMA Lt. General Omar Mahmood Hayat shared NDMA’s vision of a Disaster Resilient Pakistan with the visiting dignitary and highlighted measures being undertaken to realize this vision.
The South African Army Chief appreciated the Disaster Management Mechanism of Pakistan and express his desire to replicate the same structure in his country as well. Chairman NDMA ensured the visiting guest Pakistan’s support and cooperation to strengthen South African Disaster Management System. Both sides agreed on enhancing mutual cooperation in institutional capacity building for swift humanitarian response during disaster situations.
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Director Operation, UNOCHA New York calls on Chairman NDMA
Islamabad 13th March, 2018:
Mr. John Ging, Director Operation UNOCHA New York, who is also Lead Advisor to Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs called on Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lt. General Omar Mahmood Hayat HI(M) here on Tuesday. He was accompanied by Mr. Neil Bhune, UN Country Representative in Pakistan and Ms. Heli Uusikyla, Head of OCHA Pakistan.
Role of UNOCHA in preparedness and strengthening the institutional capacities came under discussion during the meeting. Mr. John Ging appreciated the Government of Pakistan’s support to World Humanitarian Summit (WHS) and Pakistan’s contributions to global and regional initiatives. He reiterated United Nation’s commitment to work closely with Pakistan on building capacities to extent humanitarian assistance and ensure quick response in the presence of threats attributed to Climate Change, earthquakes, floods and droughts.
Chairman NDMA while speaking to the delegation highlighted that during last decade NDMA Pakistan had evolved as a potent Disaster Management Organization with effective timely interventions and coordination in emergencies and extension of its appropriate humanitarian response in the times of disasters. Lt. General Omar highlighted the importance of close coordination between NDMA and UN Agencies and said that he looked forward to continued role of OCHA in coordination between humanitarian partners and NDMA for a resilient Pakistan.
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NDMA – NHN Pakistan Launch National Roster on Serge Emergency Response Team (SERT).
Islamabad, 23rd February, 2018:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) launched first ever National Roster on Surge Emergency Response Team (SERT) here on Friday with cooperation of National Humanitarian Network (NHN) Pakistan and Actionaid Pakistan. Lt. General (Retd.) Nadeem Ahmed, Former Chairman NDMA, was the Chief Guest at the launching ceremony of the Roster.
While addressing the opening session of the ceremony Brigadier Mukhtar Ahmed Member Operation NDMA has said that launching of first ever National Roster on SERT was an important breakthrough towards realization of our cherished national goal to build a disaster resilient Pakistan. He said that this National Roster is a comprehensive resource pool which comprises of the technical experts and people from diverse fields who have decade long experience in mitigation emergencies and disasters. He hope that roster members would be playing a vibrant and active participatory role to cope up with disasters and emergencies in future.
SERT National Roster is a nationwide Team of expert and practitioners in the field of disaster management and sustainable development. Transforming Surge Competencies initiative is taken with the Objectives to increase capacity of skilled surge personnel for civil society at international, national and regional levels, sharing of good practice on surge management practices, collaborate national, regional and international pilots and shared rosters to improve organizational surge capacity and to establish strong evidence to show how collaborative surge approaches work. The expected outcome of the project is more effective and collaborative surge capacity to responds to emergencies at national and international levels.
Lt. General (Retd.) Nadeem while speaking at the occasion as Chief Guest has said that it was his long time desire to establish a pool of expert to responds the emergency situations. He applauded the efforts of NDMA and its partners for launching of first ever National Roster on SERT. He said that Pakistan has experienced variety of worst kind of disasters and we have learned in the process. He urged for share knowledge to save the future generation from devastations. He specifically emphasized on preventive approach towards disaster mitigation to minimize the impact to future disasters.
Other guest speakers and participants appreciated the NDMA initiative of creating a pool of experts to cope up with emergencies and disasters and termed launching of National Roster on SERT as a welcome move. Participant also ensure their full support and participation in the upcoming events and emergencies if any.
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National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Army Medical Corps (AMC) Signed MoU to strengthen resilience against natural disasters
Islamabad 19 January 2018:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Army Medical Corps (AMC) signed MoU on 19th January, 2018 to promote a culture of prevention, mitigation and enhanced coordination among key stakeholders involved in Disaster Risk Management (DRM) across the country.
This MoU was signed by Chairman NDMA, Lt. Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat, HI (M) and Surgeon General, Lt General Zahid Hamid. This MoU specifically focuses on enhancing cooperation between NDMA and AMC, including mutual support in DRM related initiatives.
Mutual cooperation under the MoU will ensure medical preparedness and response with nomination of focal persons, focused & enhanced knowledge sharing / management, including training to Army Medical Corps and local medical teams where possible by AMC, capacity building in health care through National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) in the sphere of training and Establishment of an institutionalized Disease Early Warning System incorporating NIH.
Speaking at the occasion, Chairman NDMA stated that Pakistan has faced many recurrent disasters in the recent past and the cooperation of both NDMA and AMC will further contribute to saving lives and communities in the country. Surgeon General, Army Medical Corps appreciated NDMA’s endeavors and assured full support of AMC as and when required, thereby strengthening resilience of the community against disaster situations.
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NDMA SIGNS ANNUAL WORK-PLAN 2017-18 WITH UNFPA-PAKISTAN
Islamabad 12 January 2018:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) signed Annual Work Plan with the UNFPA- Pakistan here on Friday. Chairman NDMA, Lt. Gen Omar Mehmood Hayat and Country Representative UNFPA-Pakistan, Dr. Hassan Mohtashmi signed the document.
The MoU envisages cooperation between the two organizations for Gender Mainstreaming, specifically in humanitarian crises to cater the needs and concerns of vulnerable groups in the entire DRM spectrum. The work plan is part of the Multi-Year Agreement (2018-22) signed between the two organizations in December 2017 to address issues of Gender Based Violence (GBV) and protection of women during, pre and post disasters phases.
While speaking on the occasion Chairman NDMA said that work plan will strengthen capacity building of key government departments to generate evidence for prevention and response to Gender Based Violence (GBV) during disasters. “Engaging the government machinery will ensure design, implementation and strengthening of systems and policies that are gender transformative” he added.
Country Representative UNFPA-Pakistan, while speaking on the occasion, said that the programme will address root causes of gender inequality, women empowerment, girl/ child protection, in particular social norms and practices which pose structural obstacles and prevent women from making informed decisions on their sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Interventions/activities in the work plan are focused on the preparedness, response and resilience in sexual reproductive health and Gender Based Violence (GBV) including the development of a Minimum Initial Service Package (MSIP) tool to pilot the gender component of Pakistan School Safety Framework in schools across Pakistan. The work plan will support research, knowledge management and capacity building in areas of women resilience in disasters; in order to formulate informed interventions and protocols/SOPs to strengthen the multi-sectoral coordination mechanism among public institutions for prevention and response to gender issues in humanitarian and development settings.
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NDMA holds National Post Monsoon-2017 Review Conference Contingency Planning for Monsoon 2018 initiated
Islamabad, 9th Jan 2018:
National Post Monsoon-2017 Review Conference held at National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) here on Tuesday. The Conference was presided over by Chairman NDMA Lt. General Omar Mahmood Hayat.
While welcoming the participants of the Conference, Member Operations NDMA, Brigadier Mukhtar Ahmed presented a countrywide overview of the Monsoon Season-2017. He shared the overall damages caused during Monsoon-2017 in various parts of the country and highlighted the relief measures taken, weaknesses/shortfall identified, and presented recommendations for the better preparedness for the upcoming Monsoon Season-2018.
Structured presentations were given by the representatives of all provincial and regional Disaster Management Authorities, (PDMAs) including State Disaster Management Authority (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority. Representatives from Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Federal Flood Commission (FFC), National Highway Authority (NHA) and Tarbela Dam and Mangla Dam Authorities, WAPDA, SUPARCO and Engineers Directorate, GHQ also presented measures taken by their respective departments for the flood prevention and rehabilitation during Monsoon-2017 and their preparations for next Monsoon Season-2018.
Chairman NDMA Lieutenant General Omar Mahmood Hayat while appreciating the efforts of all concerned, highlighted that extreme catastrophic events mainly floods present major challenge for Pakistan. Since the Super Floods of 2010, where precious 200 lives were lost beside billions of dollars of financial losses to the national exchequers, the Government of Pakistan has been adopting various measures at different levels to fill the gaps which were identified. “Although we have come a long way and stand much better today than in 2010/ 2011, still there are gaps which need to be addressed” he continued and said that constant meetings and discussions among stakeholders like today not only enable us to understand each other but also help us to be better prepared for future. He noted that besides consolidating the losses and experiences of Monsoon 2017, today’s Conference had provided a more refined input for the preparation of Monsoon 2018. Chairman NDMA assured the various stakeholders that NDMA acknowledges the valued input, recommendations and experiences rendered by participants in the conference which will be evaluated for incorporation in our future Guidelines. He concluded after this conference Disaster Management Structure of the Country will take on the impending Monsoon Season in a more confident, professional and prudent manner in close collaboration with all stakeholders at National/ Provincial level, UN & Developmental Partners.
Later, a periodical coordination conference presided over by Chairman NDMAs was also held where all the DGs of provincial/regional Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) participated to discuss improved coordination among the Disaster Management Structure of the country to ensure smooth working.
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