Balochistan Government Steps Up Preparations to Tackle Flood Emergency
QUETTA:In light of the ongoing flood situation across the country, the Balochistan government has directed all irrigation officials and staff to take necessary precautionary measures against possible heavy rains and flooding. The directives were issued under the instructions of Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Provincial Irrigation Minister Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani, and Chief Secretary Balochistan.
On Thursday, a high-level meeting was chaired by Provincial Irrigation Minister Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani to review preparations for the anticipated flood emergency. The meeting was attended by Secretary Irrigation Saleh Muhammad Nasir, Chief Canals Nasir Majeed, Superintending Engineer Sarwar Bangulzai, and other senior officials.
Speaking at the session, Minister Umrani said that while natural disasters cannot be prevented, their damages can be minimized through professional responsibility, strategic planning, and timely protective measures. He warned that due to the rising water levels in the Indus River, low-lying areas of Balochistan remain vulnerable and require serious preventive efforts.
Secretary Irrigation Saleh Muhammad Nasir instructed concerned officers to ensure that essential machinery and equipment are deployed in vulnerable areas to protect urban populations, crops, and property. He emphasized constant monitoring of weather conditions and coordination with other departments to enable a unified response. He also stressed learning lessons from past floods of 2010 and 2022 to shape an effective action plan.
He added that officers and staff showing dedication and efficiency during emergency situations will be awarded certificates of appreciation, while negligence will lead to disciplinary action.
During the briefing, Superintending Engineer Sarwar Bangulzai informed the meeting that 16 flood control centers have already been established across different areas, where necessary equipment and machinery will be deployed to ensure timely response.
