PMD DG completes tenure after re-employment

ISLAMABAD: The government has yet to appoint the director general of Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) following the completion of the one-year re-employment tenure of Mahr Sahibzad Khan on March 31, 2025.

A spokesperson for the Met Office told The News that the Ministry of Defence, which now oversees PMD following the merger of the Aviation Division, is responsible for the appointment of the next DG.

“A decision in this regard is expected from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the basis of ministry’s recommendations and in line with official regulations,” the spokesperson added.

With the leadership crisis deepening and concerns rising among meteorological scientists, experts stress that PMD requires a competent, qualified leader who can modernize weather forecasting and strengthen Pakistan’s climate resilience.

Mahr Sahibzad Khan has yet to relinquish charge.

“Meteorology is a critical science, especially for a country highly vulnerable to climate change. Appointing a competent expert is essential to ensure accurate weather forecasting, issue timely climate warnings, and assist sectors like agriculture, aviation, and health in planning for extreme weather events,” a PMD official said.