Unprepared

For the past two days rain, strong winds and heavy snowfall have gripped the country. As per news reports, almost 100 people have lost their lives due to this catastrophic weather. Two departments manage these affairs: the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and National Disaster Management Authority Pakistan (NDMA). The PMD is responsible for providing weather forecasts.

Had the severe weather been reported and made known to the beforehand and the NDMA’s reaction time been quicker, this tragic loss of life might have been averted. Alas, we always lock the stable after the mare has bolted.

Iftikhar Mirza

Islamabad