Director General of PDMA Punjab, Muhammad Saif Anwer Jappa, participated in an 'Anticipatory Action' workshop organized by the World Food Programme (WFP). The workshop focused on pre-disaster preparedness, proactive measures, and the timely provision of relief during emergencies. Dr. Amara Khan, Head of the WFP Provincial Office in Punjab, Programme Policy Officer Khadija Abid, and other relevant officials also attended the event. Speaking on the occasion, DG PDMA Punjab Muhammad Saif Anwer Jappa emphasized that proactive preparation and timely action are essential for effectively dealing with natural disasters. Punjab faces various natural hazards annually, including floods and droughts; therefore, effective pre-disaster planning plays a crucial role in safeguarding human lives and property. He noted that, following the directives of Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, efforts are underway to enhance disaster response capacity, strengthen preparedness, and ensure the timely delivery of aid to affected populations. The DG PDMA stated that, with the support of the World Food Programme, two warehouses have been established in Lahore and Muzaffargarh, and the establishment of nine additional warehouses across the province has been approved. These facilities will ensure the timely availability of relief supplies during emergencies and facilitate their rapid dispatch to affected areas.
DG Muhammad Saif Anwer Jappa further added that the assessment of flood risks—pertaining to Punjab’s five major rivers as well as the hill torrents in four districts—has been completed. In light of the experiences from the 2025 floods, the administrative structure of the PDMA has been reorganized, while disaster response capacity is being further strengthened through the establishment of Disaster Management Units at the district level. It was noted that PDMA Punjab is developing a modern and integrated disaster management system, aimed at ensuring effective coordination among relevant agencies, optimizing the use of available resources, and facilitating a rapid response during emergencies.
The Director General of the PDMA stated that climate change is increasing the risks of phenomena such as droughts, landslides, and smog, which underscores the growing importance of proactive planning and institutional collaboration. Addressing natural disasters is a collective responsibility of all relevant stakeholders, and mutual cooperation can help mitigate damages. He affirmed that, with the support of the World Food Programme, capabilities regarding pre-disaster preparedness, emergency response, and relief operations will be further enhanced. PDMA Punjab remains committed to utilizing all available resources to safeguard the lives and property of citizens and to minimize the impact of natural disasters.
