The National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) has developed a comprehensive multi-hazard probabilistic risk assessment framework referred to as the NatCat (Natural Catastrophe) Model. This framework is vital for conducting scientifically based risk assessments and loss estimations, which are essential for the formulation of Disaster Risk Financing (DRF) instruments and for facilitating informed decision-making in development planning. In collaboration with SUPARCO, the NatCat Model customized for Pakistan includes a geo-referenced database that integrates exposure, vulnerabilities, and risk assessments, along with a module dedicated to risk and loss estimation. To promote knowledge sharing and strengthen capacity building, the NDRMF, in partnership with SUPARCO, has created an awareness and training initiative for 30 officials from the Planning and Development Board (P&DB) and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Punjab.
The training was titled “Capacity Building / Training of P&DB and PDMA, Punjab staff on Natural Catastrophe (NatCat) Model, developed by NDRMF” and was held on Thursday, 6th February, 2025 at Committee Room 3/Auditorium, Main P&DB Building, Lahore.
Key Points
- The Capacity Building Training was attended by the Section Chiefs of P&DB, the participants who could not attend sent their nominees; Mr. Nisar Sani, PDMA Punjab Director General also attended the training. The P&DB participants mentioned that the NDRMF via NatCat should have a proper presence via the establishment of cell/unit within P&DB to provide them with support with project appraisal and other tasks carried out at the department; the same suggestion was put forward by PDMA.
- Member Energy assured of support for NatCat Version 2 in data provision and connecting with stakeholders. The NatCat Team lead mentioned that a comprehensive support for establishment of data center at AJK is provided for AJK and the same was reiterated by DG PDMA that NDRMF should consider extending support for developing guidelines and manuals for seasonal forecasting. A pressing issue is with the drought severity that has been declared in Punjab owing to canal closing however, the previous plans do not cater to this situation, hence the NDRMF should step in to support the provincial departments in developing situational based plans. They were informed that the NatCat Version 2 we will add perils of GLOF, smog, environmental issues products, and integrate the education sector element within insurance sector.
- The participating departments mentioned and emphasized that insurance sector should be engaged in Punjab by NDRMF, as every year they require support, hence NDRMF should take action for Disaster Risk Financing projects and NatCat usability applications in Punjab.
- DG PDMA Punjab suggested to develop proper guideline and manuals for the use of professionals. He was informed that the manuals are developed and currently under the printing phase. Once printed, NDRMF will deliver to all relevant departments and ministries.
