Pakistan: UNDP project on tsunami preparedness launched

Experts at the launch of a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project — supported by the Japanese government — underscored the need for community readiness to effectively address the threats posed by tsunami and earthquake in the coastal areas of Pakistan.

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Titled ‘Strengthening Tsunami and Earthquake Preparedness in the Coastal Areas of Pakistan’, the project is being implemented with the coordination and technical support of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authorities of Sindh and Balochistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department, NED University of Engineering and Technology and Pakistan Red Crescent Society.

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The project also aims to enhance the resilience of coastal communities to coastal hazards in Sindh and Balochistan and expand their livelihood opportunities, particularly in the areas of Karachi West, Malir and Gwadar districts.

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“The fast-growing cities along the coast are most vulnerable to tsunami due to their proximity to the (Makran) subduction zone. This project will closely work with national, provincial and district governments for promoting policy and legal instruments and instilling tsunami risk preparedness through enhancing institutional capacity of the relevant authorities and departments through training and research,” said Muhammad Usman Manzoor, programme officer at the UNDP’s environment and climate change unit.

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