PM to announce package for rain-hit AJK, GB

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Friday reaffirmed the federal government’s support to ensure relief and recovery in the rain-hit areas of the country, particularly Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Chairing a high-level review meeting here, Shehbaz expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and extensive damage inflicted by the torrential rains across the country and reiterated the federal government’s unwavering solidarity with the regional governments and the affected people.

“The federal government stands shoulder to shoulder with the administrations and citizens of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir in this hour of grief,” the prime minister stated.

“I will soon visit Gilgit-Baltistan to express solidarity with the victims, and a comprehensive federal relief package will be announced to support recovery and rehabilitation efforts,” he added. The prime minister issued special directives to all federal agencies to collaborate closely with the regional authorities to conduct damage assessments and expedite relief measures.

He stressed the need to prioritize life-saving interventions and safeguard both human lives and property.

Highlighting the need for better disaster preparedness, the prime minister ordered an urgent overhaul of the early warning system run by the Pakistan Meteorological Department to make it more proactive and effective.

He also directed the departments concerned to restore and repair road networks and communication infrastructure on an emergency basis to ensure timely aid delivery and mobility in the affected areas.

Shehbaz emphasized a coordinated and rapid response to minimize further damage and ensure that those affected receive timely assistance and rehabilitation.

During the briefing, Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik informed the meeting that the monsoon-related disasters had so far resulted in 295 fatalities and over 700 injuries nationwide.

More than 1,600 homes have been completely destroyed, and 376 livestock lost due to the severe weather.

The NDMA chief also warned of continuing high flood threats in various rivers and streams.

Minor flooding is expected at Tarbela, Chashma, Taunsa, and Kalabagh, while moderate flood levels may occur at Head Marala and Guddu on the Chenab River.

He cautioned that the monsoon may intensify further towards the end of August.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for National Health Services Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal Friday called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and discussed matters relating to the ministry.

Kamal informed the prime minister about the progress on the ongoing projects and reforms in the health sector.