Chief Secretary Sindh Asif Hyder Shah presided over an important meeting to review preparedness measures in light of the anticipated spell of rains across the province. The meeting was attended by all Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Assistant Commissioners.
The Chief Secretary directed the entire administrative machinery to remain on high alert and ensure proactive measures to effectively deal with any situation arising from the expected rainfall. Highlighting the importance of on-ground presence, he instructed all Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Assistant Commissioners to remain in the field to closely monitor the situation and ensure immediate response to public issues. He emphasized that field officers must prioritize public facilitation and operational readiness during this period.
The meeting was informed that the Meteorological Department has forecast a new spell of rains. In view of this, the Chief Secretary directed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to issue timely advisories and ensure effective coordination with all relevant departments.
He further instructed district administrations and municipal bodies to remain fully mobilized and actively engaged in the field to facilitate citizens and manage any emergency situation efficiently. Special emphasis was laid on drainage arrangements, with directions to ensure availability and operational readiness of all dewatering machinery. Authorities were instructed to take advance measures to prevent water accumulation and urban flooding in vulnerable areas. The Chief Secretary also directed concerned departments to ensure smooth flow of traffic during the rains to minimize inconvenience to the public, particularly in areas prone to congestion and waterlogging.
Taking serious notice of potential hazards, he ordered immediate action against dangerous billboards and structures that could pose risks during heavy rains and strong winds. He also directed that an effective public awareness campaign be launched to inform citizens about precautionary measures and safety guidelines during the rainy spell. Asif Hyder Shah also instructed all departments to complete advance preparedness measures and ensure a coordinated and timely response to safeguard public life and property.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Sindh has issued a province-wide alert warning of rain and strong winds in the coming days, urging authorities and the public to take precautionary measures.
According to officials, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast rain and thunderstorms in Sindh on March 25 and 26, as well as March 28 and 29. PDMA Director General Salman Shah said several districts, including Karachi, Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Dadu, Kashmore, Jacobabad and Larkana, could be affected by the weather system. The PDMA has directed its staff to remain on alert with necessary machinery in place to respond to any emergency situation. Authorities warned that strong winds and possible hailstorms could damage weak structures and solar panels.
Officials also cautioned that standing crops in various areas may suffer losses due to adverse weather conditions, while a drop in temperature is expected during the period. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, while tourists and commuters have been urged to exercise caution. Farmers have been asked to take preventive measures to protect their crops.
The PDMA further said that all deputy commissioners and relevant departments have been instructed to remain on high alert. On the directives of Advisor to Chief Minister Sindh for Rehabilitation Department Gyan Chand Essrani, advance arrangements have been ensured to effectively deal with any emergency situation.