Disaster Governance in Balochistan: Assessing the Role of PDMA and Local Institutions

Abstract

This study examines disaster governance in Balochistan by assessing the role of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and local institutions in managing natural and climate-induced disasters. The core problem lies in weak institutional coordination, limited local capacity, and ineffective governance mechanisms, which have contributed to inadequate disaster preparedness and response in the province. The purpose of this research is to evaluate existing disaster governance structures and identify gaps between policy design and ground-level implementation. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, using document analysis, policy review, and secondary data from official reports and previous studies. It also incorporates insights from case studies on PDMA’s operations and local governance practices in disaster-prone districts. The findings reveal that while PDMA has made efforts to improve coordination and introduce tools such as early response mechanisms, significant challenges persist. These include weak inter-agency coordination, centralized decision-making, lack of community involvement, and insufficient resource allocation at the local level. The study concludes that disaster governance in Balochistan remains largely reactive rather than proactive. Strengthening local institutions, enhancing community-based disaster risk reduction, and improving coordination between provincial and district authorities are essential for effective disaster management. Without institutional reforms and inclusive governance, disaster risks will continue to intensify in the region.