The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and emergency response agencies in Sindh have been placed on high alert ahead of a fresh spell of monsoon rainfall forecast between July 31 and Aug. 2.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), rain and thunderstorms are expected in several districts of the province during the period, with warnings of possible flash flooding and rising water levels in streams and rain-fed channels.
Preparations were reviewed at a high-level meeting attended by officials from the PDMA, Rescue 1122 and mobile health services, chaired by Gianchand Esrani, adviser to the Sindh chief minister.
During the meeting, PDMA Director General Salman Shah said above-normal rainfall is expected in Tharparkar, Badin and the Mirpurkhas division. He added that a new weather system is expected to enter Sindh between July 31 and Aug. 2, prompting all relevant institutions to remain on alert.
Esrani said the PDMA has the capacity to establish relief camps and provide food and essential facilities for up to 14,000 affected families if required.
He added that the province’s central command and control room has been linked with the PDMA to enable a rapid response to any emergency.
The Director General of Rescue 1122 told the meeting that the department is fully prepared to respond to urban flooding and other emergencies, adding that mobile health units are ready to provide medical services in affected areas.