Independent Report
Gilgit: Caretaker Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Justice (R) Yaar Muhammad, has warned that climate change is rapidly increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters in the region, posing a major challenge in the coming years.
Speaking during a departmental briefing by the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), the caretaker chief minister stressed that disaster management has become a critical sector requiring urgent strengthening. He called for the provision of adequate resources and the removal of staff shortages to enhance the authority’s operational capacity.
Justice (R) Yaar Muhammad directed that a comprehensive strategy be developed for timely rescue, relief, and rehabilitation during emergencies. He emphasized the need for heavy machinery availability in all districts to ensure immediate response during natural calamities.
He appreciated the establishment of the Provincial Emergency Control Room, stating it would improve coordination and effectiveness of rescue operations. The caretaker chief minister also praised FCNA and the Pakistan Army for their timely assistance during tourist seasons and disaster situations.
He instructed that compensation for losses caused by natural disasters be paid promptly under policy guidelines and stressed complete transparency in emergency rehabilitation works.
