On the directions of the Prime Minister, the 17th meeting of the Emergency Response Committee was held at the National Emergencies Operations Centre, NDMA Headquarters in Islamabad today.

Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal presided over the meeting.

The Committee reviewed the prevailing monsoon situation across the country, hydrological conditions, weather outlook, preparedness measures and coordinated emergency response arrangements.

The National Emergencies Operations Centre presented a comprehensive situational briefing, highlighting the latest weather forecasts, river flows, vulnerable locations and anticipated impacts of the ongoing monsoon spell.

The Committee was further informed that the northern regions of the country are likely to remain under the influence of the rain-bearing system until Friday, which may result in intermittent rainfall and localized weather-related emergencies in vulnerable districts.

The Rawalpindi district administration briefed the session on the situation in Nullah Lai and said that relevant departments had been placed on high alert. It added that the safe evacuation of residents was being ensured with the support of Civil Defence, police, and Rescue 1122 personnel.

Provincial authorities briefed the Committee on preparedness measures, availability of rescue resources, emergency stocks, evacuation planning and coordination with district administrations.

Representatives of relevant federal and provincial departments and response agencies also shared updates on the prevailing flood situation, impacts and response measures being undertaken in their respective areas.

The Committee was apprised of ongoing rescue and relief operations, deployment of resources, coordination mechanisms and measures being taken to address emerging risks in vulnerable areas.

Particular emphasis was given in the meeting on ensuring uninterrupted communication, timely dissemination of early warnings, pre-positioning of relief resources and maintaining the operational readiness of response agencies in vulnerable districts.

On the occasion, the Minister for Planning emphasized the need for all relevant departments and response agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure timely implementation of preparedness and response measures.