Islamabad 12 December 2017:
“National Action Plan for the Implementation of Bangkok Principles on Health Aspects of Sendai Framework of Disaster Risk Reduction” was launched today.
The National Action Plan was officially launched on 12th December 2017 in presence of senior officers of Health Directorates and Disaster Management Authorities from all the four Provinces including Gilgit Baltistan, FATA, AJ&K, ICT and also country representatives of UN agencies & I/NGOs.
Speaking at the occasion, Member Disaster Risk Reduction NDMA, Mr. Idrees Mahsud said that the need of health preparedness plan was felt to be incorporated into a National Disaster Management Plan to prepare for, reducing the threats posed by the effects of disasters and emergencies. This National Action Plan on Health and DRR is envisioned to build the bridge between the disaster management and the health-related stakeholders present at National, Provincial and District level to work in close coordination in reducing the disaster impact to health facilities and health care system in the country. He assured that NDMA and NHEPRN will closely work to mobilize resources for the implementation of the plan through various funding sources including Annual Development Programme. He also invited the donor agencies to be part of implementing this plan and promoting concept of mainstreaming DRR into health sector.
Along with Member DRR NDMA, Mr. Idrees Mahsud, DG National Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Network (NHEPRN), Dr. Muneer Ahmad Mangrio and officials of Rescue 1122 also participated in the launching ceremony of National Action Plan.
This Plan has been formulated with technical support of consultancy firm i.e., Network for Disaster Management Professionals (NDMP). Mr. Falak Nawaz head of this consultancy firm NDMP, also informed about the consultation process for formulation of Plan. The participants were briefed on strategic priority areas and key proposed interventions with a vision to strengthen the existing capacities across the country in responding to various health emergencies.