ISLAMABAD: Supported by the Government of Japan and in partnership with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and the Economic Affairs Division, the UNDP commemorated the successful completion of the US $ 3.7 million project ‘Strengthening Tsunami and Earthquake Preparedness in Coastal Areas of Pakistan’ at a ceremony in Islamabad on Friday.
According to a press release issued by the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad, while the project has concluded, it has left behind resilient, empowered, and knowledgeable communities and institutions. This marks the start of a new chapter in tsunami and earthquake preparedness in Pakistan’s coastal areas.
The project has successfully strengthened disaster preparedness and response, laying a foundation for continued resilience in Pakistan’s coastal communities. Through this program, the UNDP addressed critical challenges in the coastal districts of Malir, West/Keamari Karachi, and Gwadar in the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan, working to minimize the risks and impacts of tsunamis on these communities.
“This was achieved through the revision of guidelines for tsunami and earthquake preparedness and by enhancing the disaster response and preparedness capacity of vulnerable coastal communities. The project also prioritized gender equity in its approach to mitigating coastal hazards,” the press release stated.
The Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Mitsuhiro Wada, addressing the ceremony, said, “With its historical frequency of natural disasters, Japan has gained significant knowledge and experience in climate and disaster risk management, preparedness, and response. Japan’s Development Cooperation Charter highlights the importance of disaster risk reduction for poverty eradication and sustainable development. Japan is committed to promoting these efforts, leveraging its expertise in this area.”
Wajahat Ahmed, Assistant Director PDMA Sindh, remarked that the project represents a significant milestone in collective efforts to enhance disaster resilience. “It demonstrates the power of collaboration, expertise, and a shared commitment to saving lives. Let us apply the lessons learned to further strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities in the Coastal Belt against natural disasters,” he said.
UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Dr. Samuel Rizk noted, “Although the project has concluded, the resilient, empowered, and knowledgeable communities and institutions it has established will continue to make a difference. Our collaboration with Japan has been instrumental in building a more resilient future.”
