Published on: August 26, 2025 4:39 PM
ISLAMABAD: NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik proposed a temporary ban on tourism during the monsoon season. He urged the government to take preventive action before disasters happen. He said spending one dollar before a disaster saves eleven dollars afterward. This ban could reduce risks during heavy rains when flooding is likely.
He explained that 200mm of rainfall can cause serious disasters in Pakistan. Therefore, a two to three-week tourism ban during the monsoon would save many lives. Lt Gen Inam also mentioned Pakistan now has a disaster prediction system similar to China’s. He stressed that climate change should be seen as a national security threat.
PAC Chairman Junaid Akbar questioned NDMA’s focus on disaster response rather than prevention. He asked for clear plans to avoid damage, not just aid after disasters. In reply, the NDMA chief highlighted rescue work in flood-hit areas like Buner and Bahawalnagar. Early warnings helped save many people in these regions.
Lt Gen Inam also said tourists ignore safety warnings, which increases risks and rescue challenges. He repeated that restricting tourism during heavy rainfall is necessary to prevent deaths. Although warnings were issued earlier to limit tourist numbers, many did not follow them.
During the session, committee members raised concerns about misuse of funds meant for early warning systems. Sardar Sanaullah Mastikhel threatened legal action against responsible officials. Senator Afnan Ullah asked about Pakistan’s new satellites, and the NDMA chief confirmed using data from 370 satellites for disaster monitoring.
