PDMAs and coastal communities strengthen disaster risk management with support from the Government of Japan and UNDP

ISLAMABAD: In collaboration with the Government of Japan, the Economic Affairs Division, and the PDMA offices in Sindh and Balochistan, UNDP has held a closing ceremony today in Islamabad to celebrate the successful completion of the USD 3.7 million initiative titled ‘Strengthening Tsunami and Earthquake Preparedness in Coastal Areas of Pakistan.’

Although the project has ended, the empowered and informed communities and institutions it has supported continue to thrive, ushering in a new era for Tsunami and Earthquake Preparedness in Pakistan’s coastal regions. Japan offers funding 3 projects related to climate change

The success of the project in enhancing disaster preparedness and response has established a solid foundation for ongoing resilience among Pakistan’s coastal populations.

Through this initiative, UNDP has tackled a crucial development issue in the coastal districts of Malir, West/Keamari Karachi, and Gwadar in Sindh and Balochistan provinces by mitigating tsunami risks and their potential effects on these communities.

This was accomplished by updating guidelines for tsunami and earthquake readiness and boosting the disaster response and preparedness capabilities of at-risk coastal populations. Additionally, the project emphasized gender equity in its strategy to address coastal hazards.

Mr. Wajahat Ahmed, Assistant Director (Civil) at PDMA Sindh, stated, “This project represents a major achievement in our joint efforts to improve disaster resilience.

It highlights the effectiveness of collaboration, specialized knowledge, and a shared dedication to saving lives. We should use the insights gained to further enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities along the Coastal Belt, making them better equipped to handle natural disasters.”

In his address, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Mitsuhiro Wada, emphasized, “Given Japan’s long history of natural disasters, we have accumulated extensive knowledge and experience in managing climate and disaster risks, preparedness, and response. Japan’s Development Cooperation Charter underscores the critical role of disaster risk reduction in achieving poverty alleviation and sustainable development. Japan is dedicated to advancing these efforts by utilizing its expertise in this field.”