AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad, In response to the ongoing severe heatwave affecting various regions of Pakistan, the federal government, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and other relevant departments, has initiated a comprehensive awareness campaign. This campaign aims to educate the public on the hazardous impacts of the current heatwave conditions and promote preventative measures.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, detailed the efforts during a news conference held in Islamabad, flanked by officials from the NDMA. The Ministry of Climate Change and NDMA are disseminating advisories and public service messages across multiple media platforms, including television, radio, and social media, to enhance public awareness and encourage the adoption of safety measures during this critical period.
Alam highlighted the broader context of global climate change, which contributes to more frequent and intense weather-related disasters. She noted that Pakistan, despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, ranks as the fifth most disaster-vulnerable country in the world. The months of May and June, traditionally the driest and hottest in the country, have seen a rapid increase in heatwave severity.
She further reported that thirteen districts in Sindh, nine in Punjab, and four in Balochistan are currently experiencing severe heat conditions. Alam strongly urged the public, especially children and the elderly, to take proactive steps to mitigate the effects of the heatwave.