Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for shifting Pakistan’s disaster-management system from emergency reaction to anticipatory planning, technology-enabled forecasting, climate-resilient infrastructure, and accountable rehabilitation.

He was chairing a high-level meeting to review the countrywide monsoon situation, disaster-response operations, outstanding rehabilitation needs, and preparations for future climate emergencies in Islamabad today.

Ahsan Iqbal directed the National Disaster Management Authority, provincial authorities, and concerned departments to immediately begin preparations for Monsoon 2027.

The committee also discussed plastic waste as a major contributor to urban flooding.

The minister called for a nationwide awareness and behaviour-change campaign alongside effective enforcement of restrictions on polythene bags.