ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORTER
A review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, regarding preparations and emergency response during monsoon rains. The meeting was attended by CDA Member Admin and Estate Talat Mehmood, Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza, Director General Dr. Abdul Rehman of Capital Emergency Services, along with other senior officers.
The meeting included a detailed discussion on observations from recent visits to low-lying areas, including Saidpur Village and Chhatta Bakhtawar. During the briefing, the Director General of Capital Emergency Services apprised that capacity building training for emergency staff are being organized from August 26 under the supervision of eight Chinese experts to tackle potential challenges of the ongoing monsoon season. These training exercises will focus particularly on modern methods of swift water rescue and the use of advanced technology to effectively handle emergency situations during the monsoon and provide maximum assistance and facilities to citizens during heavy rainfall.
The Director General of Capital Emergency Services also briefed the meeting about several ongoing measures to improve emergency services in Islamabad. He informed that comprehensive planning is underway to bring the emergency response system up to the latest standards, with special emphasis on the installation of modern equipment and enhancing staff capabilities.
Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa appreciated the efforts of the officers and staff of Capital Emergency Services and directed that pre-positioning of emergency teams and all relevant departments be ensured in case of potential heavy rainfall during the monsoon. He emphasized that all necessary equipment and resources should be prepared in advance, and all types of arrangements must be completed to handle emergencies so that citizens do not face any difficulties. He further instructed that the availability of relevant staff and modern machinery in the field must be guaranteed.
Chairman CDA also directed further strengthening of the 24-hour surveillance system at all sensitive and low-lying areas in the city. He said that all possible measures should be taken immediately to improve the performance of emergency services. He also appealed to citizens to take precautionary measures during the monsoon and immediately contact Rescue 1122 and Emergency Helpline 1334 in case of any emergency situation.
