Pakistan is taking a giant step to protect its people and public assets from floods, earthquakes, and climate disasters. A new nationwide program aims to prevent disaster losses before they happen

NDMA launches the Infrastructure Audit Program 2026 to assess and strengthen critical public buildings and infrastructure nationwide. The initiative focuses on prevention, resilience, and risk-informed planning ahead of monsoon and natural disasters

Nationwide Initiative Launched

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) officially launched a national Infrastructure Audit Programme 2026 on Wednesday. The initiative aims to strengthen public infrastructure and reduce losses from natural disasters. A seminar was held to review and audit vulnerable buildings and facilities across the country.

Focus of the Programme

The program brings federal and provincial stakeholders together on a single platform. It establishes a national framework for assessing and improving public infrastructure. The initiative has formal approval from the Prime Minister’s Office for nationwide implementation.

Minister’s Address

Federal Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, highlighted Pakistan’s repeated losses due to floods, earthquakes, and climate disasters. He said vulnerable infrastructure is a major factor in these losses. He stressed the need to shift from reactive response to preventive planning.
The minister praised NDMA for this forward-looking initiative and called it a paradigm shift from assumptions to evidence-based decision making.

NDMA Chairman’s Remarks

Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, NDMA Chairman, said the seminar focused on coordinating nationwide implementation.
Key goals include:

• Building a shared understanding of the audit framework
• Clarifying roles and responsibilities
• Aligning strategies and timelines
• Ensuring systematic assessment and strengthening of critical infrastructure

Implementation Plan

The programme includes:

• Phased audits of high-risk and high-occupancy buildings
• Standardised methods: visual inspections, non-destructive testing
• Digital reporting and decision-support systems
• Incorporation of resilience indicators into infrastructure planning

Officials from federal and provincial governments, engineers, academia, and development partners attended the seminar.

Critical Analysis

Socio-Economic Impact

Pakistan has historically faced massive human and economic losses due to disasters. The programme aims to identify risks early and mitigate structural weaknesses, reducing loss of life and economic damage. Improved infrastructure will enhance public safety, investor confidence, and community resilience.

Governance and Preparedness

Bringing all stakeholders together strengthens coordination and accountability. Standardized audits ensure consistent quality and transparency across provinces. Data-driven decision-making will help prioritize investments in the most vulnerable areas.

Challenges

Implementation across remote areas may face logistical and technical challenges. Sustained monitoring and funding are crucial to ensure long-term effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Infrastructure Audit Programme 2026 represents a major step forward in disaster prevention. By focusing on risk-informed planning and resilience, Pakistan can save lives, protect public assets, and strengthen governance. The program sets a model for proactive disaster management in the region.