Prepare for Monsoon: NDMA Urges Citizens To Download Disaster Alert App

News Desk

Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) authorities on Friday urged citizens to take proactive measures to ensure their safety by downloading the ‘PAK NDMA-Disaster Alert’ app for real-time weather updates as the country braces for another monsoon spell of severe weather.

During an interview, NDMA Team Lead Manager Zahra Hassan explained that the app is designed for early warning alerts and community engagement, enabling NDMA, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMAs) to provide timely risk communication through necessary information and critical alerts before disasters.

Zahra stated the NDMA alert warns that torrential rains, expected to continue until August 15, could lead to urban flooding in low-lying areas, including AJK, Lahore, Rajanpur, Malakand, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Sialkot, Sargodha, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Multan, Sahiwal, Nowshera, and Peshawar. Additionally, heavy rains may further increase water levels in the rivers Chenab and Ravi, she added.

Hassan emphasised that the NDMA is closely monitoring the situation and issuing regular advisories to ensure public safety during the monsoon season. With the ‘PAK NDMA-Disaster Alert’ app, the authority provides real-time updates on weather forecasts, flood warnings, and other disaster-related information to help citizens, especially tourists, make informed decision and prepare in the face of various crises.

NDMA’s team is working around the clock to track weather patterns, monitor water levels, and coordinate with provincial authorities to respond swiftly to emerging situations.

By issuing timely advisories, NDMA aims to minimise the impact of natural disasters, reduce risks to life and property, and promote a culture of disaster preparedness and resilience across the country.

Hassan revealed that the NDMA had identified flood-prone areas in March, demonstrating the authority’s proactive approach to disaster management. “We did not wait for the monsoon season to arrive; we anticipated the risks and took proactive measures,” she explained.

To ensure strong coordination and a unified response, the NDMA initiated the Provincial Coordination Forum, bringing together stakeholders from provincial authorities, emergency services, and other relevant agencies. This collaborative platform enables real-time information sharing, resource mobilisation, and swift decision-making, ensuring a robust and effective response to potential floods, Team Lead Manager added.