PDMA Balochistan Mobilizes For Monsoon Emergencies: DG Vows Swift Action, Preparedness

QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th Jul, 2025) Amid heightened flood threats during ongoing monsoon, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Balochistan has launched a province-wide emergency readiness plan, aiming to safeguard lives and property from potential flooding and rain-related disasters.

Speaking to APP, PDMA Director General Jahanzaib Khan confirmed that the government has activated District Disaster Management Authorities, empowered local administrations, and stockpiled vital relief supplies to respond swiftly across vulnerable regions.

He emphasized that clear directives from Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti will ensure accountability, coordination, and a proactive stance in tackling seasonal calamities.

Jahanzaib Khan emphasized that the Balochistan government was fully committed to ensuring swift and effective emergency response across all vulnerable districts.

The PDMA and the Irrigation Department have taken proactive measures to safeguard canals and prevent flooding in the region.

In light of recent heavy rainfall and changing weather patterns, the PDMA has activated district-level emergency teams chaired by Deputy Commissioners (DCs), with participation from key line departments, he said and added that these teams were tasked with leading rescue and rehabilitation efforts during flooding or other emergencies.

The DG PDMA assured immediate release of the Disaster Management funds and pledged the deployment of PDMA-owned heavy machinery to the districts as needed.

"The DCs, who also head District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) will the authority to utilize the funds in emergency during a crisis," he added.

He said the DG confirmed that DCs have been authorized to hire private machinery for rescue operations, while PDMA’s own equipment will also be dispatched to flood-prone areas to ensure readiness.

Jahanzaib Khan said that the Secretaries of C&W and Irrigation departments also pledged their full support, directing their respective XENs to coordinate closely with the district administrations and ensure timely provision of resources.

Jahanzaib Khan highlighted that the Balochistan government has approved a comprehensive contingency plan on June 12, reflecting its proactive stance on disaster preparedness.

“The chief minister has been directed all district administrations to complete emergency preparations based on local weather forecasts,” he added.

"Relevant departments including District administration, Health, Irrigation, Police, Livestock and others have been instructed to remain on high alert to avoid any untoward situation. The PDMA has advised DDMAs to coordinate closely with these agencies to ensure the availability of emergency personnel, inventory and essential supplies at vulnerable locations. To bolster readiness, the PDMA has stockpiled relief items for over 300 families in each district. These include tents, blankets, groceries, fuel, and machinery, ensuring rapid deployment when needed".

The DG confirmed he will personally oversee rescue and relief operations in affected districts. He also stated that food supplies will be provided on an emergency basis wherever needed.

District Commissioners have been directed to return any unused funds from relief operations and submit machinery back to PDMA offices for inventory and audit purposes. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has also commended the performance of PDMA during previous rains and floods, urged continued vigilance and efficiency. Protecting lives and property is our top priority. The government will provide all necessary resources to ensure effective disaster response, he affirmed.

He stressed for the need to ensure protection of lives and properties of the people while maintaining efficiency of the concerned departments and agencies during calamities.

He assured that the provincial government would provide all necessary resources in this regard.

He said the leaves of PDMA officials have been canceled and all personnel are on high alert to respond to emergency situations unfolding across various areas of the province.

The Director General said that the Chief Minister has issued clear directives, if any department found negligent will face strict action. Each department’s responsibilities have been clearly outlined in the contingency plan, he added.