Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has launched a set of key Inclusive Disaster Risk Management Initiatives aimed at enhancing preparedness and response measures for vulnerable populations affected by disasters.

According to Radio Pakistan, the initiatives are designed to address the specific needs of groups most impacted by disasters, including women, children, older persons, persons with disabilities, transgender persons, and economically challenged communities. These initiatives underscore Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring that disaster management is accessible, equitable, and centered around the needs of the people.

The first initiative, called Inclusive Early Warnings, introduces multi-format alert systems that include sign language, audio, visual, and easy-to-read formats. This is intended to improve preparedness and ensure timely responses, particularly for persons with disabilities and older individuals.

The second initiative, the Community Engagement and Accountability Framework, provides a structured mechanism for sharing information, collecting feedback, and ensuring the participation of affected communities in the disaster management process.

The third initiative, Revised National Policy Guidelines for Vulnerable Groups in Disasters, aims to strengthen national guidance for inclusive planning, data collection, service provision, and protection for marginalized groups.

During the launch event, Chairman NDMA, Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to ensuring inclusive access to disaster-related information, services, and decision-making processes. The event also saw participation from federal government officials, development partners, humanitarian organizations, and civil society representatives, who discussed strategies for the operationalization and scaling up of these initiatives.