PM Shehbaz approves Monsoon 2026 Strategic Plan to strengthen climate resilience

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the Monsoon 2026 Strategic Plan, prepared by the Ministry of Climate Change, which outlines comprehensive national-level measures to manage climate risks, rebuild damaged infrastructure and minimise future monsoon-related impacts.

The plan has been structured in three segments based on sustainability, effectiveness and practicality, categorised as short, medium and long term.

According to official documents, the first phase focuses on a 240-day target to repair critical infrastructure damaged during the previous monsoon. This includes the restoration of all drainage canals and floodgates to ensure improved water flow and flood prevention capabilities. Urban areas, particularly those with dysfunctional or blocked drainage systems, will undergo advance rehabilitation to mitigate potential flooding hazards.

In the medium-term phase, spanning one to three years, existing infrastructure will be upgraded and expanded to accommodate increased climate pressures. This includes strengthening drainage networks, expanding flood management facilities and enhancing urban resilience. Specific emphasis will be placed on areas historically vulnerable to flooding, particularly densely populated urban zones.

The long-term plan, covering four to five years, centres on the construction of new climate-resilient infrastructure designed to withstand future environmental threats. According to the Ministry of Climate Change, this infrastructure will focus on adaptability, durability and reduced vulnerability to extreme weather impacts.

All measures outlined in the Monsoon 2026 Strategic Plan will be implemented with the consultation and collaboration of provincial governments. Officials highlight that coordinated planning and collective execution will be key to reducing monsoon-related risks on a national scale.