AKU, PDMA team up to tackle heatwaves in Pakistan

The Centre of Excellence for Trauma and Emergencies (CETE) at Aga Khan University (AKU) has partnered with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to address the growing threat of extreme heatwaves in Pakistan.

Their joint initiative, funded by Elrha, is centered on the ‘Heat Emergency Awareness and Treatment’ project, which aims to bolster public awareness, develop exposure treatment strategies, and create a comprehensive Heat Plan to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

A recent stakeholder meeting marked a significant step in this initiative, drawing high-profile officials including Assistant Commissioners, Additional Deputy Commissioners, and District Health Officers from across Sindh.

Key attendees included Dr. Sardar Sarfaraz, Chief Meteorologist of the Pakistan Meteorological Department; Imdad Hussain Siddiqui, Director of Operations at PDMA; and representatives from Rescue 1122 and Sindh Integrated Emergency and Health Services. Dr. Junaid Razzak, Director of CETE, emphasized the urgent need for well-defined action plans to address extreme heat, stating, “Extreme heat is a rapidly growing public health crisis, particularly for cities in Pakistan. We need clear action plans and defined triggers, and we are committed to working with PDMA and other partners to develop these plans.”.

The meeting underscored the importance of establishing a more effective District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), enhancing coordination across districts, and launching a robust communication campaign involving both government departments and non-profit organizations.

Stakeholders agreed on the necessity of regular meetings and the development of a Heatwave Management Plan for the most affected districts.

Dr. Sardar Sarfaraz highlighted the complexity of heatwaves, stating, “Understanding the phenomenon of heatwaves requires more than just monitoring daytime temperatures; it involves a comprehensive analysis of various influencing factors.”

Imdad Hussain Siddiqui praised the initiative, noting, “AKU has made a significant move by uniting various stakeholders to address this crucial issue. This effort should be ongoing.” CETE has produced an animated awareness video on heat emergencies, which is being shared on social media to educate the public and enhance preparedness.