ISLAMABAD by IMTISAL BUKHARI
On the special directive of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, a high-level collaboration meeting was held to discuss challenges related to early warning systems and network connectivity. The meeting was jointly chaired by Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Musadik Malik.
Senior officials in attendance included the Secretary of IT, Secretary of Climate Change, representatives from the Power Division, Chairman PTA, Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan, officials from the Meteorological Department, and the Special Communications Organization (SCO).
During the meeting, participants conducted a detailed review of the current challenges facing early warning systems and communication infrastructure in the country. Emphasis was placed on the need for robust interdepartmental coordination to ensure the timely dissemination of alerts during natural disasters.
Key decisions made during the meeting included strengthening inter-agency coordination, enhancing data sharing among institutions, and expanding technical cooperation. These steps are aimed at improving emergency response times and ensuring public safety.
The ministers highlighted that the government prioritizes citizen safety and is committed to utilizing modern technologies to improve early warning mechanisms.
Towards the conclusion of the meeting, participants also discussed forming a joint working group to develop actionable recommendations for the improvement of early warning systems and expansion of network connectivity across the country.
