News Desk: The Government of Balochistan has approved a Rs7.5 billion emergency response package and the Monsoon Contingency Plan 2026 as experts warned that temperatures in Balochistan could rise to 53 degrees Celsius this year.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting of the Provincial Disaster Management Commission chaired by Mir Sarfraz Bugti, where officials reviewed the province’s preparedness for heatwaves, monsoon rains, floods, cloudbursts, and possible heat bursts caused by extreme climate conditions.
Experts briefed the commission on increasing risks linked to global climate change, warning that unusual weather events could trigger emergencies across vulnerable districts. Relevant departments were directed to remain on high alert and complete all precautionary arrangements in advance.
The commission approved funds for rescue, relief, rehabilitation, and emergency response activities, while divisional and district-level PDMA offices will be fully equipped with machinery, rescue tools, tents, medicines, and other essential supplies.
Authorities also decided to activate 1122 rescue centers in all districts of the province, with plans to establish additional rescue facilities at the tehsil level during the second phase.
In view of severe heatwave risks, hospitals across the province have been directed to enforce heatstroke emergency measures and ensure the availability of ambulances, medical staff, and medicines.
The government also announced a province-wide public awareness campaign regarding heatwaves and possible heat bursts. Authorities will arrange cold drinking water and shaded areas in vulnerable locations, while awareness messages will be spread through educational institutions, mosques, media outlets, and social media platforms.
The meeting was attended by Provincial Home Minister Mir Zia Langove, Opposition Leader Mir Younis Aziz Zehri, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, and senior government officials.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said protecting public lives and property remained the government’s top priority amid rising climate-related threats.
He directed authorities to keep drainage systems, rescue machinery, relief supplies, and heatwave relief points operational in sensitive districts, adding that the provincial government would utilize all available resources during any emergency situation.
