In a proactive initiative aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS), in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), organized a two-day Simulation Exercise on Summer Contingencies 2024. Led by the faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Environmental Science, the event focused on equipping participants with the necessary skills to mitigate summer-related hazards such as heatwaves and urban floods.
The simulation exercise commenced with participants visiting key stakeholders including the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and the Quetta Municipal Corporation (QMC). Additionally, a community survey was conducted in the Chashma Achozai area, assessing awareness levels regarding summer hazards and disaster risk response. The participants actively engaged in an awareness walk and camp management exercise, gathering valuable data on local hazard-related challenges and identifying potential capacity-building opportunities for disaster preparedness.
The closing ceremony, chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez, showcased innovative solutions presented by students from various departments. These solutions, inspired by global best practices, aimed to address local challenges such as solid waste management and climate change. Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez applauded the proactive engagement of the Department of Environmental Sciences, BUITEMS, with QMC and PDMA, resulting in the recruitment of over 120 volunteers for disaster management efforts.
BUITEMS' commitment to disaster management extends beyond the simulation exercise, with the establishment of the Disaster Risk Response (DRR) club under the Emergency and Response Club of the Youth Development Center (YDC). This initiative aims to promote disaster preparedness and risk reduction on a broader scale in collaboration with the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM).
The Simulation Exercise on Summer Contingencies 2024 underscores BUITEMS' dedication to fostering a culture of disaster resilience and community empowerment. By harnessing innovative ideas and proactive collaboration, BUITEMS is playing a vital role in building a Disaster Resilient Pakistan.