ISLAMABAD, May 30 (ABC): The National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) has invested Rs903 million to strengthen health emergency response systems in 15 hospitals across Balochistan. The initiative forms part of wider efforts to improve disaster resilience and climate adaptation in vulnerable districts.
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the projects targeted areas frequently affected by climate-induced disasters. These districts include Chagai, Killa Saifullah, Killa Abdullah, Naseerabad, Pishin and Loralai.
Health facilities receive emergency response support
The health system strengthening programme covered hospitals and healthcare facilities in Quetta, Pishin, Naseerabad, Killa Abdullah, Killa Saifullah, Loralai, Chagai, Kech, Khuzdar, Panjgur, Gwadar, Awaran, Washuk, Wadh, Nushki, Kharan and Kalat.
The programme aimed to improve emergency preparedness and enhance the capacity of healthcare institutions to respond to natural disasters and climate-related emergencies.
Flood protection infrastructure expanded
Alongside healthcare interventions, NDRMF invested heavily in disaster mitigation infrastructure across the province.
According to official documents, the organisation reconstructed and rehabilitated 88 flood protection structures. These projects help protect vulnerable communities from recurring flash floods and other climate-related disasters.
The upgraded infrastructure is expected to reduce damage to homes, farmland and public assets during extreme weather events.
Small dams improve water resilience
NDRMF also developed 20 small dams and water conservation structures in remote areas of Balochistan.
These projects aim to improve water management, support local livelihoods and strengthen climate resilience in water-scarce regions.
Officials believe the new infrastructure will help communities cope better with droughts and changing rainfall patterns.
Public buildings retrofitted for safety
The Fund retrofitted 15 public buildings, including schools and Basic Health Units (BHUs), to improve their ability to withstand natural disasters.
The retrofitting work enhanced structural safety and reduced risks to people using these facilities during emergencies.
Early warning system boosts preparedness
NDRMF also installed an early warning system in vulnerable areas of the province.
The system helps communities respond quickly to potential disasters and reduces risks to life and property. It also supports local authorities in making timely decisions during emergencies.
According to the documents, these initiatives form part of NDRMF’s broader strategy to strengthen resilience and disaster preparedness in Pakistan’s underserved and climate-vulnerable regions.
