The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) held a Media Coordination Conference at its headquarters in Islamabad to enhance disaster preparedness and improve crisis communication. Key stakeholders, including government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and media representatives, participated and agreed upon adopting integrated and technology-driven communication strategies to manage disaster risks more effectively.
The conference was inaugurated by Air Commodore (Retd) Umar Naeem, Executive Director of the Regional Military and Media Wing, who highlighted the critical role of coordinated and responsible media messaging in mitigating the impact of disasters. He noted that clear, timely, and precise communication can significantly reduce panic, facilitate relief efforts, and ensure public safety.
Organized as part of NDMA’s broader Risk Communication Forum initiative, this conference aimed to enhance cooperation and coordination with Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs). It emphasized the timely sharing of early warnings, disaster risk advisories, and effective communication strategies at both provincial and district levels.
Representatives from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoIB), Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Rescue 1122, humanitarian groups, and mobile network operators actively participated in the discussions. The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) Technical Team provided an extensive three-month outlook on hydro-meteorological impacts, specifically addressing anticipated risks associated with the monsoon season across various regions of the country.
Ms. Sara Malik, the NDMA Deputy Director for Media, highlighted strategic approaches for disaster communication at the national level. Her presentation underscored the importance of prompt dissemination of early warnings and effectively countering misinformation during urgent situations. Malik emphasized that accurate communication directly contributes to public trust and boosts disaster mitigation efforts.
Participants also explored community-centered messaging, advocating closer collaboration with local media outlets and social influencers for broader public outreach. Discussions covered digital innovations, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven platforms, chatbots, geo-tagged SMS alerts, and other technological advancements designed to enhance the dissemination of critical information during emergencies.
Addressing local operational challenges faced by provincial Public Relations Officers (PROs) and journalists, attendees exchanged knowledge of best practices and unique regional solutions. They recognized the pressing need for streamlined digital communication to prevent misinformation, maintain clear narratives, and facilitate speedy and effective disaster response.
Concluding the conference, stakeholders unanimously agreed to expand capacity-building efforts by arranging provincial-level media workshops and mutual training sessions for journalists and PROs. NDMA reiterated its commitment to developing advanced, integrated communications platforms to steadily improve the nation’s resilience against disasters.
