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Arab News
a day ago
- Health
- Arab News
Pakistan launches week-long polio vaccination drive in Balochistan amid spike in cases
ISLAMABAD: Pakistani authorities will launch a week-long polio vaccination campaign in the country's southwestern Balochistan province today, Monday, amid a fresh spike in cases of the infection. According to state broadcaster Radio Pakistan, the vaccination drive will begin in 'sensitive union councils' across Balochistan on Monday to target children under the age of five. 'According to Provincial Polio Emergency Operation Center, more than five hundred thousand children up to the age of five will be vaccinated,' Radio Pakistan said. It said the campaign will cover 123 'high-risk' union councils including those in the provincial capital of Quetta, Pishin, Chaman, Dera Bugti, Duki, Zhob and Killa Abdullah districts. The polio drive takes place a day after Pakistan's National Emergencies Operation Center reported three fresh cases of the disease, taking the total tally of polio cases this year to 17. Two of the cases were reported in Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province while the third case was reported from the country's southern Sindh province. Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children and can cause permanent paralysis. There is no cure, but it can be prevented through multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and a complete routine immunization schedule, experts say. Pakistan, one of only two countries in the world where polio remains endemic, the other being neighboring Afghanistan, has made significant gains in recent decades. Annual cases have fallen dramatically from an estimated 20,000 in the early 1990s to single digits by 2018. However, the country has witnessed a worrying resurgence recently. Pakistan reported 74 cases in 2024, raising alarms among health officials and global partners supporting the eradication campaign. In contrast, only six cases were recorded in 2023 and just one in 2021. Despite decades of effort, Pakistan's polio eradication drive has faced persistent challenges, including misinformation about vaccines and resistance from conservative religious and militant groups who view immunization campaigns with suspicion. Some clerics have claimed the vaccines are a Western conspiracy to sterilize Muslim children or part of intelligence operations. Vaccination teams and police providing security have also been targeted in militant attacks, particularly in remote and conflict-affected areas of KP and Balochistan. These threats have at times forced the suspension of campaigns and restricted access to vulnerable populations.
Arab News
2 days ago
- Health
- Arab News
Pakistan reports three fresh polio cases, taking 2025 tally to 17
KARACHI: Pakistani authorities on Sunday reported three new polio cases across the country, taking the 2025 tally to 17 amid Islamabad's efforts to eliminate the disease. Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children and can cause permanent paralysis. There is no cure, but it can be prevented through multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and a complete routine immunization schedule, experts say. Pakistan, one of only two countries in the world where polio remains endemic, the other being neighboring Afghanistan, has made significant gains in recent decades. Annual cases have fallen dramatically from an estimated 20,000 in the early 1990s to single digits by 2018. However, the country has witnessed a worrying resurgence recently. Pakistan reported 74 cases in 2024, raising alarms among health officials and global partners supporting the eradication campaign. In contrast, only six cases were recorded in 2023 and just one in 2021. 'The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, has confirmed three new polio cases— two from the districts of Lakki Marwat and North Waziristan in South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and one from District Umerkot in Sindh,' Pakistan's National Emergencies Operation Center said. The new cases include a 15-month-old girl from District Lakki Marwat, a six-month-old girl from North Waziristan district and a 60-month-old boy from District Umerkot, the statement said. Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has reported the highest number of polio cases this year, 10, followed by five from Sindh and one each from Punjab and northern Gilgit-Baltistan region. The NEOC noted that despite 'substantial progress' in polio eradication efforts, the new polio cases underscore the persistent risk to children, especially in areas where vaccine acceptance remains low. 'It is crucial for communities to understand that poliovirus can resurface wherever immunity gaps exist,' it said. 'Every unvaccinated child is at risk and can also pose a risk to others.' The NEOC said an anti-polio vaccination campaign is currently underway, which was launched from July21-27 in Pakistan's union councils bordering Afghanistan. It added that a polio vaccination campaign using doses of the IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine) and OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) was started in southwestern Balochistan's Chaman District on July 21, adding that the same campaign will expand to six more districts in the province starting from July 28. The NEOC urged parents to cooperate with frontline polio workers in getting children vaccinated. 'Communities can protect themselves by actively supporting vaccination efforts, addressing misinformation, and encouraging others to vaccinate their children,' it added. Despite decades of effort, Pakistan's polio eradication drive has faced persistent challenges, including misinformation about vaccines and resistance from conservative religious and militant groups who view immunization campaigns with suspicion. Some clerics have claimed the vaccines are a Western conspiracy to sterilize Muslim children or part of intelligence operations. Vaccination teams and police providing security have also been targeted in militant attacks, particularly in remote and conflict-affected areas of KP and Balochistan. These threats have at times forced the suspension of campaigns and restricted access to vulnerable populations.
Business Recorder
11-07-2025
- Climate
- Business Recorder
NEOC warns of landslides in northern regions particularly Gilgit-Baltistan, AJ&K
The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), on Friday released a warning for potential landslides in northern areas, notably Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJ&K). According to the alert, isolated heavy rainfall is expected in the valleys of Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamir, Ghanche, and Shigar. Widespread heavy rain is also likely in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Haveli, Bagh, and adjoining areas of AJ&K. Potentially affected areas include Upper Kohistan (RD 200–240), Diamir and Astore (RD 340–380), Gilgit (RD 400), and Nagar (RD 460) along the Karakoram Highway (KKH). Multiple locations along the Jaglot–Skardu Road (JSR), particularly in the Rondu region, are also at risk of landslides, mudslides, and rockfalls. Authorities and residents in high-risk zones are advised to remain vigilant for potential slope failures, landslides, and ground subsidence. Travel to vulnerable areas should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Relevant departments have been instructed to ensure the availability of emergency personnel and machinery in the identified areas and remain on standby for a rapid response. The NDMA said it is actively coordinating with the GBDMA and SDMA to implement proactive response measures and safeguard affected communities. The public is strongly urged to stay informed through official alerts disseminated via television, radio, SMS, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application. NDMA remains in close coordination with relevant authorities to monitor the evolving situation and ensure the timely dissemination of warnings. Meanwhile, the NEOC has also issued a hydrological outlook along with an impact-based weather alert for the period from July 13 to 17. In its advisory, the NEOC has urged the public to take precautionary measures in anticipation of moderate to heavy monsoon rains expected to affect multiple regions of the country during this period. The forecast indicates moderate to heavy monsoon rainfall across various parts of Pakistan, driven by increased moisture from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea in conjunction with an active westerly wave system. As a result, increased flows are expected in all major rivers, particularly the Indus, Kabul, Jhelum (upstream Mangla), and Chenab. Currently, Tarbela, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages are at low flood levels, while Kalabagh and Chashma are at medium flood levels. 'Taunsa is also expected to rise to medium flood level, with low to medium flows likely to persist in Indus river stations throughout the coming week. River Chenab at Marala and Khanki is expected to reach low flood levels, while River Kabul at Nowshera is also forecasted to attain low flood level. Rain-induced swelling is anticipated in River Swat and River Panjkora along with their associated streams and nullahs,' the NEOC said.
Business Recorder
29-06-2025
- Climate
- Business Recorder
Rain, urban flooding, GLOFs: NDMA issues weather alert across Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an impact-based weather alert for rain, urban flooding, and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) across the country during the next two days. Keeping in view the above situation, the NDMA has directed all provincial and district administrations to remain on high alert, activate contingency plans, and ensure timely dissemination of warnings in local languages. Furthermore, the NDMA has also advised the citizens, especially those in high-risk areas, to stay updated through official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel near glacial streams, riverbanks, and flooded roads, and keep emergency kits ready. For real-time alerts and preparedness guidelines, download the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App and follow NDMA's official communication channels. The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) of NDMA has issued multiple impact-based weather alerts in view of ongoing and forecasted rain-wind/ thunderstorms, risk of GLOFs, urban flooding, and flash floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), intense rainfall and above-normal temperatures have increased the likelihood of GLOF events in northern districts including Upper Dir, Chitral, Swat, Reshun, Booni, Brep, Sardar Gol, Arkari, Dir Gol, Thalu l and 2, and Kumrat Valley. These areas are at risk of GLOF and sudden flash floods, damage to roads and infrastructure, and disruption to public mobility. Similarly, isolated rain and thunderstorms are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Karak, Kohat, Kohistan, Khyber, Kurram, Mohmand, Nowshera, Malakand, Charsadda, Bannu, Buner, Hazara, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, and Waziristan. Thunderstorms may cause damage to weak structures, reduce visibility, and result in temporary power outages. In Gilgit-Baltistan, rapid glacier and snowmelt combined with rain has escalated the risk of GLOF in high-altitude valleys such as Badswat, Hinarchi, Tursat Hundur, Darkut, and Ishkoman. Rainfall is also likely in Hunza, Skardu, Astore, Chilas, and adjoining regions, which could lead to rising river levels, flash floods, and damage to transport and power infrastructure. In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, rainfall is expected in Neelum Valley, Bagh, Kotli, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Haveli. The potential impacts include flooding in low-lying areas, transport disruption, and drainage system overload due to persistent downpours. In Punjab, widespread rain and thunderstorms are forecasted in Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Khushab, Sargodha, Narowal, Chiniot, Toba Tek Singh, Faisalabad, Lahore, Okara, and Kasur. The region faces risks of urban flooding, power outages, damage to fragile structures, and traffic disruption due to poor visibility during dust and rain spells. Islamabad will also witness the same weather conditions in next 24 to 48 hours. In Balochistan, isolated rainfall is expected in Quetta, Zhob, Loralai, Ziarat, Kalat, Musakhel, Khuzdar, Awaran, Barkhan, Jaffarabad, Kohlu, Sibi, and Dera Bugti. Thunderstorms and strong winds may damage weak infrastructure, reduce visibility, and cause power interruptions. In Sindh, widespread rain and thunderstorms are likely in Jacobabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Nawabshah, Khairpur, Kashmore, Hyderabad, Tharparkar, Mirpur Khas, Umerkot, Sanghar, Jamshoro, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Thatta, Badin, and Karachi. Heavy rainfall may result in urban flooding, traffic disruption and damage to vulnerable structures and electricity lines. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
28-06-2025
- Climate
- Business Recorder
Rain, urban flooding, GLOFs: NDMA issues weather alert across country
ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an impact-based weather alert for rain, urban flooding, and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) across the country during the next two days. Keeping in view the above situation, the NDMA has directed all provincial and district administrations to remain on high alert, activate contingency plans, and ensure timely dissemination of warnings in local languages. Furthermore, the NDMA has also advised the citizens, especially those in high-risk areas, to stay updated through official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel near glacial streams, riverbanks, and flooded roads, and keep emergency kits ready. For real-time alerts and preparedness guidelines, download the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App and follow NDMA's official communication channels. The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) of NDMA has issued multiple impact-based weather alerts in view of ongoing and forecasted rain-wind/ thunderstorms, risk of GLOFs, urban flooding, and flash floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), intense rainfall and above-normal temperatures have increased the likelihood of GLOF events in northern districts including Upper Dir, Chitral, Swat, Reshun, Booni, Brep, Sardar Gol, Arkari, Dir Gol, Thalu l and 2, and Kumrat Valley. These areas are at risk of GLOF and sudden flash floods, damage to roads and infrastructure, and disruption to public mobility. Similarly, isolated rain and thunderstorms are expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Karak, Kohat, Kohistan, Khyber, Kurram, Mohmand, Nowshera, Malakand, Charsadda, Bannu, Buner, Hazara, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, and Waziristan. Thunderstorms may cause damage to weak structures, reduce visibility, and result in temporary power outages. In Gilgit-Baltistan, rapid glacier and snowmelt combined with rain has escalated the risk of GLOF in high-altitude valleys such as Badswat, Hinarchi, Tursat Hundur, Darkut, and Ishkoman. Rainfall is also likely in Hunza, Skardu, Astore, Chilas, and adjoining regions, which could lead to rising river levels, flash floods, and damage to transport and power infrastructure. In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, rainfall is expected in Neelum Valley, Bagh, Kotli, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Haveli. The potential impacts include flooding in low-lying areas, transport disruption, and drainage system overload due to persistent downpours. In Punjab, widespread rain and thunderstorms are forecasted in Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Khushab, Sargodha, Narowal, Chiniot, Toba Tek Singh, Faisalabad, Lahore, Okara, and Kasur. The region faces risks of urban flooding, power outages, damage to fragile structures, and traffic disruption due to poor visibility during dust and rain spells. Islamabad will also witness the same weather conditions in next 24 to 48 hours. In Balochistan, isolated rainfall is expected in Quetta, Zhob, Loralai, Ziarat, Kalat, Musakhel, Khuzdar, Awaran, Barkhan, Jaffarabad, Kohlu, Sibi, and Dera Bugti. Thunderstorms and strong winds may damage weak infrastructure, reduce visibility, and cause power interruptions. In Sindh, widespread rain and thunderstorms are likely in Jacobabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Nawabshah, Khairpur, Kashmore, Hyderabad, Tharparkar, Mirpur Khas, Umerkot, Sanghar, Jamshoro, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Thatta, Badin, and Karachi. Heavy rainfall may result in urban flooding, traffic disruption and damage to vulnerable structures and electricity lines. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
