National Disaster Response Plan (NDRP) March 2010 - NDMA

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MESSAGE BY THE PRIME MINISTER
Disasters have been the bane of humanity during different ages. Though dissimilar in nature,
locale, intensity, duration and effects, they share an attribute: negative fallouts. The aftermaths
invariably sport indelible marks in form of human fatalities, property losses, environmental degradation
and, above all, painful memories.
Inarguably, calamities have posed formidable challenges to mankind since earliest days. The
quest to neutralize the threat led to evolution of practices, varying in content but common in outlook
wherein total reliance was placed on ‘response’. The structural imbalance of such a posture became
amply evident during 2005 NWFP/AJ&K Earthquake. To redress the weaknesses, National Disaster
Management Authority (NDMA) was created through National Disaster Management Ordinance 2006.
I am glad that in its capacity as apex body charged with up-gradation of the complete national
disaster management profile, the NDMA has developed elaborate plans covering the myriad potential
natural/induced disasters. In this context, the National Disaster Response Plan (NDRP) has
addressed relevant aspects of potential hazards, vulnerability analysis, available/projected resource
inventories, stakeholder’s roles and responsibilities, identification of shortcomings, and most
importantly, expounded cost effective counter measures.
The document I am sure will undoubtedly contribute towards clearing concepts, building
networks, harmonizing initiatives and energizing stakeholders. I hope that the guidelines set forth by
the NDRP will be observed by all concerned. The NDMA, on its part, must seek to bring about any
changes warranted by experience so as to make the NDRP a truly living document.
I am confident that with materialization of such ventures, the coming times will witness
attainment of goals for better management of crises emerging out of disaster.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani
Prime Minister of Pakistan