Spokesman Report
Islamabad: The World Health Organization (WHO) joined the Government of Pakistan, provincial authorities, and partners at a National Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Conference in Islamabad to strengthen long-term readiness for climate-driven floods and other hazards.
Under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, the conference focused on short- and long-term preparedness, health sector coordination, timely data sharing, resource optimization, and uninterrupted essential health services for the most vulnerable. The health sector is now ready to activate the *Monsoon and Flood Contingency Plan 2026* to assist *1.8 million people* in high-risk areas this year.
The event was organized by the Ministry and supported by WHO, UNFPA, IOM, UNICEF, IRC, and Save the Children.
Federal Minister of State for Health Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath noted Pakistan’s high vulnerability, with an estimated *60 million people* affected by climate-related hazards along the Indus River belt. The World Risk Report 2024 ranks Pakistan among the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries, while the Global Climate Index 2026 places it among the 15 most affected by extreme weather from 1995–2024.
WHO Pakistan Representative Dr. Luo Dapeng emphasized that investing in preparedness and science-based emergency response saves lives and is more cost-effective than late interventions.
