Peshawar: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is actively gearing up for the upcoming winter season, focusing on a robust Winter Contingency Plan (WCP) for 2023-24, according to a news source on October 17.
The news source stated that under the guidance of the Relief, Rehabilitation, and Settlement Department (RRSD), a pivotal pre-winter planning and orientation meeting was conducted. KP RRSD Secretary Inayat Ullah Wasim chaired the session with Relief and HR Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) in attendance.
PDMA Director General (DG) Janat Gul Afridi outlined the approach of the WCP which categorizes districts based on Vulnerability and Risk Assessments, tailoring contingencies according to varying levels of vulnerability. Considering KP’s unique geographical challenges, comprehensive data collection tools have been developed and shared with stakeholders. These tools include district-specific hazard information, vulnerability profiles, impact assessments, resource mapping, compensation details, needs assessments, and coordination efforts.
Addressing the gathering, Secretary Wasim highlighted the plan’s comprehensive nature, designed to tackle various winter-related natural hazards such as extreme cold, fog, snowfall, rainfall, landslides, flash floods, and seismic activities in the mountainous regions of the north and west. He commended the crucial role played by the district administration during rescue and relief operations in times of crisis.
PDMA Director of Disaster Risk Management Iqbal Wazir elaborated on the proactive preparedness measures aligned with guidelines set by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). This approach aims to streamline responses at both provincial and district levels, ensuring seamless coordination among all stakeholders.
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